Species

Eryngium bourgatiiMediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium

1 other cultivar

‘Picos Amethyst’Picos Amethyst Sea Holly

perennial RHS Award

Picos Blue Sea Holly

Eryngium bourgatii 'Picos Blue'

The Story

Plant Bio

Eryngium bourgatii, or Mediterranean sea holly, is a clump-forming perennial native to the Pyrenees. It is prized for its thistle-like, blue-to-amethyst flower heads surrounded by spiny, silvery-blue bracts, and its deeply lobed, dark green leaves with prominent white veins.

This cultivar has a unique, extremely vivid blue color that stands out in the garden and contrasts beautifully with other plants.

Uses & Benefits:

Eryngium Picos Blue offers striking spiky blue flowers that add texture and color to gardens, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Its drought tolerance makes it ideal for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.

Provides habitat and nectar for beneficial insects and pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesEryngium bourgatiiMediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

18 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Pyrenees Mountains

Toxicity

None reported

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting, usually in 6 weeks.
Plant in full sun with sandy or loamy soil for optimal growth.
Water sparingly once established, allowing soil to dry out between watering.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.
Divide mature plants in early spring or fall to propagate new specimens.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy development.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells to keep soil slightly moist 🌱
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Prune dead or damaged stems to encourage new growth
Feed with a low-nitrogen fertilizer in spring
Monitor regularly for pests and diseases

Don't

Avoid overwatering which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
Refrain from fertilizing late in the growing season
Don’t disturb roots during flowering
Avoid excessive pruning in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Harvest
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silver‑foliaged borderTextural accent in perennial beds

Companion Plants

Echinacea SedumLavender Agastache Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Picos Blue Sea Holly questions

What zones can Picos Blue Sea Holly grow in?

Picos Blue Sea Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Picos Blue Sea Holly deer resistant?

Yes — Picos Blue Sea Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Picos Blue Sea Holly bloom?

Picos Blue Sea Holly typically blooms in mid to late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Picos Blue Sea Holly need full sun?

Picos Blue Sea Holly does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Is Picos Blue Sea Holly drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Picos Blue Sea Holly handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.