Mediterranean Sea Holly
eryngium bourgatii
Also known as: ["Mediterranean Eryngo","Bourgat's Eryngo"]
Overview
A striking perennial herbaceous plant with spiky, silvery-blue foliage and thistle-like flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Eryngium |
| Botanical Name: | Eryngium bourgatii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or xeriscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; lightly prune throughout the growing season as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an older plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel in outdoor beds.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate brief periods of frost but thrives in mild conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and partially shaded conditions.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead flowers by cutting just above a leaf node; trim stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, clean scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with fresh soil; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged exposure can lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; flowering may be reduced; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot regions; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; water before and after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEryngium bourgatii is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEryngium bourgatii is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEryngium bourgatii is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is a member of the Apiaceae family and is primarily cultivated for ornamental purposes.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Eryngium bourgatii?
A: Propagate by seed in spring or by division in early autumn.
Q: Does Eryngium bourgatii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant suitable for dry gardens?
A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained, dry to moderately moist soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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