We were out for a drive and spotted this plant in one of the flower gardens along the way. The cameras popped out, and we spent considerable time trying to capture the best image possible of this unusual plant. As soon as we returned home, and downloaded our images, I did some intense searching on the internet to see exactly what we'd found. At first, I thought it was some type of thistle or maybe teasel, but they didn't quite match our find. The closest I could find is Blue Star Sea Holly.

Sea Holly Eryngium Planum is a perennial plant in the carrot family (Apiaceae). It grows in stiff erect clumps 1 to 3 feet tall and 1 to 2 feet wide, and provides interest in the landscape with its unusual spiky flower heads that resemble a thistle. The name Eryngium is a Greek reference to the spiny nature of this genus of plants, but this species is not spiny. The species name planum means flat and refers to the flat, unarmed leaves.

The plants bloom from June through September and often profusely during the summer. Sea holly is tolerant of poor or dry soils, and its spiny leaves are resistant to browsing by rabbits and deer. It withstands salty, coastal winds and also does well in inland gardens. Plant it in a container or along a patio to enjoy the unusual blooms that are frequented by hummingbirds and butterflies. ~ link for additional information

We're definitely getting seeds for next year's garden!



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