Eryngium planum Blauer Zwerg

Eryngium planum 'Blauer Zwerg' is a perennial noted for its spiky inflorescences that are grey-green and carried on bluish-grey stems during the summer months.

This sea holly is a dwarf variety that will not exceed 50 cm (20in) in height, and it has highly branched flower stalks above rosettes of small heart-shaped, dentate leaves, as well as flowers clustered in numerous small heads that form delicate metal blue stars between July and September. The spiky margins of the colourful bracts, which resemble thistles, are the reason for its other common name, ornamental thistle.

From picturesque to contemporary scenes, its colours range from green to silver and its graphic design allow it to fit into many situations. Ideally in full sun, Eryngium planum 'Blauer Zwerg' loves heat and drought, and adapts to all sunny, chalky soils that are well-drained and deep; it even tolerates coastal areas. What it dislikes most is moisture, especially in winter. To prolong its decorative effect beyond the warmer days outdoors, you can easily make dried bouquets with it, as it retains its beautiful hues when dried.

Eryngium planum 'Blauer Zwerg' works well in a rock garden, flowerbed, wild garden, or contemporary garden alongside Gauras, Verbascums, Salvias or Perovskias, or some Stipas.