Blue Cap Sea Holly
Boulder, Colorado area landscapes {Monthly Series}
Blue Cap Sea Holly, or Eryngium planum ‘Blaukappe’ is a fabulous perennial flower for your dried arrangements. It has large leafy basal leaves with tall, stiff stems that lead to spiky flower heads. The flower color is light blue, and the tall stems are quite sturdy, so they work well in flower arrangements. They are low water usage plants, thrive in full sun, and upkeep is minimal. There are about 250 species of the genus, but only Blue Cap (planum) seem to be readily available at the local nurseries for use in our Boulder Colorado landscapes.
Many species are native to the western Mediterranean area or dry and rocky areas of South America and Mexico. Therefore, they can do well in a more xeric rock garden environment in our Colorado landscapes. However, they also can thrive on more moisture, and some American species are found in more wet grassland environments. So, this is an adaptable plant with showy flowers. It will not spread via rhizomes (roots), but can seed itself. However, the plant is easily removed because it does not send down a strong tap root and undesirable seedlings are easy to identify and remove. Plant a few in the perennial garden as a backdrop to yellows and reds. It will stand up to 24” tall, so it is a good plant for mid height perennial borders. It is deer resistant, handles clay soils, and will attract pollinators. Enjoy the showy mid to late season blooms!
Some Photos by Keith Williamson at Little Valley Wholesale Nursery.
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