ERYNGIUM

Description

Eryngium: a flowering herb just as prized for its exquisite color as its rare shape! With origins in Europe and Central Asia, the genus Eryngium is composed of over 200 species (mostly perennials and some annuals) in the Apiaceae family.

Historically, Eryngium was used in herbal medicines to treat coughs, liver diseases and other ailments. As a food source, its young roots and leaves were found in recipes for teas, sweets and herbal seasonings, and were often consumed like root vegetables. Many say Eryngium tastes like chestnuts. It was also seen growing wild along coastal areas of the U.K. and grasslands in Southeastern Europe, and was later cultivated as an ornamental plant for home gardens. Eryngium thrives in almost any kind of soil—even those that may be nutrient deficient—and provides excellent erosion control given its extensive root system.

Eryngium stems typically grow between 60–182 cm in height, feature basal leaves in varying shades (either silver, green, blue or purple) and are topped with cone-shaped flower heads. These thistle-like heads are encased by spiny bracts that are usually steel-blue or purple in color. Although not as common, white cultivars are also available. Each flower head is a composite of tiny, violet-blue florets that are not fragrant.

The species Eryngium planum and Eryngium alpinum, and their cultivars, make up a majority of Eryngium varieties that are most commonly used as cut flowers. E. planum typically grows to less than 91 cm in height and features 1–2 cm sized flower heads surrounded by narrow bracts. This species is easy to ship and boasts a good vase life, whether fresh or dried. E. alpinum is more visually striking compared to E. planum, featuring larger flower heads and approximately 10–20 bracts per inflorescence. However, E. alpinum is more difficult to grow.

Today, Eryngium is a favored choice among floral artisans as a versatile filler flower and among gardeners as a low-maintenance perennial. It adds great visual interest to fresh or dried arrangements and compliments almost all color palettes. Many of its traditional uses have also extended to the 21st century. In modern herbalism, Eryngium root is used in tonics as a diuretic, stimulant and antitussive.

Colors: Blue, violet

Special Care

Select straight, sturdy stems with well-formed bracts and flower heads in the bud stage. Both the bracts and flowers should be vibrant in color. Eryngium plants are prone to damage and disease, so inspect them carefully for either issue.

When processing, strip any foliage that falls below the water line. Recut the stems about 2.5 cm at an angle (45-degrees) and hydrate them in room temperature water mixed with a commercial floral preservative for at least two hours before storage or use in floral work. Although not required, stems can be recut under running water or in a bowl of clean water. Cutting under water may reduce the risk of air pockets forming at the stems’ base and allows the flowers to absorb water right away. Cooling the stems for up to two days at 39ºF (3.9ºC) may allow the flowers’ color to intensify and deepen. Stems can be stored for up to ten days at 37–39ºF (2.8–3.9ºC).

Eryngium is suitable for drying. Rather than drying the stems in the air, it’s recommended to dry them using a desiccant like silica gel. This will preserve the blue color of the flowers better.

Fun Facts:

• Eryngium received its name from a thistle plant (Eryngium campestre) used by the “father of botany,” Theophrastus, in ancient Greece.

• The common name sea holly was likely coined by Native Americans who used the plant in homeopathic remedies to treat snake bites.

• The two most common species of Eryngium found in florist shops are Eryngium planum and Eryngium alpinum. E. alpinum plants have much larger flower cones compared to E. planum, but are usually more difficult to germinate.

• Typically, Eryngium foliage lasts about half the time of its flowers. 

• Aside from their ornamental applications, many species of Eryngium have been used in herbal medicines and as a food source. Their plants produce an essential oil which has anti-inflammatory and antitussive properties. Additionally, their roots and leaves can be consumed like vegetables and used as seasoning herbs.

• With its strong and bold appearance, Eryngium is known to symbolize independence and attraction.

• Eryngium maritimum was said to be a potent aphrodisiac; during Elizabethan times, its roots were commonly collected in England and used for that reason.

• Eryngium is a low maintenance plant valued for its easy care, unique texture and wonderful color. A quick gardening tip: to intensify its blue/violet hues, make sure the plants are stationed in a place that receives great sunlight! Eryngium thrives in dry, sunny landscapes and tolerates a variety of soils with good drainage.

• Sun-loving Eryngium is a staple for summer months, attracting butterflies and bees when grown in home gardens.

• Eryngium is listed as one of the top 30 flowers for drying.