Eryngium x zabelii ‘Big Blue’ (USPP#20636, PBR 28175) comes to Rozanne and Friends from Myerscough College of Preston, in Lancashire, UK.
The electric-blue flower heads have 4-inch (10 cm) wide bracts and the color extends down onto spiky foliage and along flower stems. Makes larger, taller plants than Eryngium ‘Blue Sapphire’.
Commonly known as “Sea Holly”, this variety originates from its native coastal home. The spiny leaves, flowers and bracts refer to similar spiny leaf features of the evergreen shrub, Holly. Plants within this genus thrive in dry, sunny locations. ‘Big Blue’ Sea Holly loves the sun, so much that when in shade its color dilutes.
For growers
- Typically plant 1 liner per 4.5-inch (11 cm), 6-inch (15 cm) or 1-gallon (4 litre) pots.
- Vernalization is required and plants need extra time to size up before overwintering. Plant in late summer to early fall and allow plants to bulk before vernalization. Overwinter outdoors or inside cold greenhouses.
- Allow plants to emerge and flower with naturally occurring spring temperatures. This method provides larger plants, more uniformity and more flowers.
- Alternatively, plant vernalized liners in March and April. However, plants will not be as uniform, full or floriferous as in bulked, overwintered crops.
- Standard media pH: 5.5 to 6.5; standard media EC 1.5 to 3 mmhos/cm.
- Water thoroughly but allow to dry slightly between irrigations.
- Primary problem can be root rot.
- See the Technical Guide for more information.