The Story
Plant Bio
Eryngium bourgatii, commonly known as the blue sea holly, is a perennial plant characterized by its spiky blue flowers and distinctive, spiny leaves.
Notable for its unique metallic blue flowers and drought tolerance, it is often used in dry gardens and borders.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
24 inches
Width
18 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Dry to moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Mediterranean region
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
- Tuck seeds about 1/4 inch deep into soil, spacing 12 inches apart.
- Mist seeds lightly to keep soil moist until germination, which takes 2-3 weeks.
- Allow seedlings to grow until they are 4-6 inches tall before transplanting if needed.
- Water regularly during the first growing season to establish roots, then reduce frequency.
- Apply a light layer of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring for best natural growth and flowering.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water sparingly once established to avoid overwatering 💧
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering and growth
- Use well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Remove spent flowers to encourage new blooms
Don't
- Don’t overwater; Eryngium prefers dry conditions ❌
- Avoid heavy, clay soils that retain water
- Don’t fertilize excessively; too much nitrogen can reduce flowering
- Refrain from disturbing plants during flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Propagate |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium questions
What zones can Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium grow in?
Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium 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 Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium deer resistant?
Yes — Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium bloom?
Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium need full sun?
Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Eryngium to compare
Sea Holly
Eryngium elevatum
rattlesnake master
Eryngium yuccifolium
Big Blue Sea Holly
Eryngium x hybrida 'Big Blue'
Blue Glitter Sea Holly
Eryngium planum 'Blue Glitter'
Blue Hobbit Eryngium
Eryngium x zabelii 'Blue Hobbit'
Picos Blue Sea Holly
Eryngium bourgatii 'Picos Blue'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Mediterranean Sea Holly, Bourgat's Eryngium with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.