Hardy perennial with metallic blue thistle-like buds. They make a great cut flower addition to your garden!
Also known as sea holly.
Approximate Seeds per Packet: 10
Variety/Hardiness: Perennial (Zone 4 but ours have overwintered successfully in Zone 3, so feel free to experiment)
Sunlight: Full sun
Mature Height: 36″- 40″
Germination: 7-10 days at 22-24°C
Sowing:
Transplant (not/recommended): Sow indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost. Do not cover with soil as light is required for germination. Mist carefully or bottom water to avoid displacing the seeds. Harden off and transplant after the last threat of frost has passed.
Direct Seeding: (not recommended)
Care: Eryngium is a low maintenance plant that tolerates sandy soil, warm, sunny weather, and does not want to be overwatered. Spacing up to 24"
Harvesting:
Fresh: Harvest when the heads and stem turn entirely blue but before pollen is shedding. Adding flower preservative in their water will prolong their vase life.
Dried: Harvest much the same as if harvesting for fresh use. Hang to dry. If harvested when to mature, they may be prone to shattering.