Agave-like Sea Holly
eryngium agavifolium
Also known as: ["Agave-like Eryngo","Agave-like Sea Holly"]
Overview
A striking perennial herb with spiky, agave-like leaves and globe-shaped, metallic blue flowers, native to South America.
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 agavifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, open position
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to remove damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; use gritty amendments.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize lightly to avoid excessive foliage growth; stop feeding in fall; use a cactus-specific blend if available.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of offsets; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may form in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead stems to the base; trim leggy growth to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health; shape as needed to encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut dead/damaged parts; shape lightly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture penetration; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; vulnerable to root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; use frost cloth in cold snaps; ensure well-draining soil to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch or yellowing; reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; apply diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth; avoid feeding in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEryngium agavifolium is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a known risk of toxicity to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEryngium agavifolium is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEryngium agavifolium is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eryngium agavifolium toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets; it is recommended to keep pets away from the plant.
Q: How often should I water Eryngium agavifolium?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Eryngium agavifolium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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