Eryngium ebracteatum
perennial

Ebracteate Sea Holly

Eryngium ebracteatum

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low

Humidity

Low

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

South America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

The Story

Plant Bio

Eryngium ebracteatum is a perennial herbaceous plant featuring spiky, blue-green foliage and distinctive, globe-shaped flower heads composed of tightly packed, metallic-blue bracts, providing a striking architectural appearance. This species is appreciated for its drought tolerance and ornamental value, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance, xeriscape gardens and attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesAdds striking architectural interest with its spiky, blue flower heads, ideal for modern and xeriscape gardens.
Practical UsesDrought-tolerant, reducing water needs and maintenance.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts beneficial insects and pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds just below soil surface in spring
  2. Water lightly until established, about 2 weeks
  3. Ensure well-drained soil for best growth
  4. Place in full sun for optimal flowering
  5. Divide clumps every 3โ€“4 years in early spring
  6. Mulch lightly to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Pro Tip

Prefers dry, well-drained soil; avoid overwatering

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water sparingly once established ๐Ÿ’ง
  • Prune dead stems in late fall
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring
  • Ensure good air circulation around plants

Don't

  • Overwater, which can cause root rot โŒ
  • Plant in heavy, clay soil without amendments โŒ
  • Neglect pruning, which can reduce flowering โŒ
  • Use chemical pesticides indiscriminately โŒ

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Pest Check
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Silvery, spiky border plantDrought-tolerant rock garden accentWildflower meadow highlight

Companion Plants

Sedum Lavender Agastache Yarrow Echinacea

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ebracteate Sea Holly questions

What zones can Ebracteate Sea Holly grow in?

Ebracteate Sea Holly is hardy in USDA Zones 6โ€“10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Ebracteate Sea Holly deer resistant?

Yes โ€” Ebracteate Sea Holly is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Ebracteate Sea Holly bloom?

Ebracteate Sea Holly typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone โ€” Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Ebracteate Sea Holly need full sun?

Ebracteate Sea Holly does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Ebracteate Sea Holly drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Ebracteate Sea Holly 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.

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