Blue Eryngo Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides
ABOUT
This plant, commonly known as the button eryngo, typically presents a striking and unique appearance. It possesses a rosette of basal leaves that are typically tough and spiny with a distinctive, leathery texture. The leaves are often elongated and may have toothed or lobed edges, contributing to a somewhat rugged look. During the blooming period, it produces stiff, bristly flowering stems that culminate in thistle-like flower heads. The flower heads are usually globe or egg-shaped, consisting of numerous small flowers that are tightly packed together. They often exhibit a metallic or glaucous hue, with colors ranging from silvery-blue to green, sometimes with hints of violet. The stiff bracteoles that surround the flower heads are narrow and spiny, much like the leaves, and may give the plant an arresting and prickly demeanour. Button eryngo forms an impressive and architectural element in the landscape, exuding a kind of rough elegance. Its appearance offers a contrast to softer, more traditional flowering plants, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to introduce visual interest and textural diversity to their garden beds or naturalistic plantings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apiaceae
Synonyms
Tall Eryngo, Wax-Leaved Eryngium
Common names
Eryngium poterioides.
ToxicityTo humans
Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides, commonly known as "button snakeroot," does not have a well-documented profile of toxicity to humans in the scientific literature. As a result, specific symptoms of poisoning from this plant to humans are not well-established. However, it is important to exercise caution and avoid ingesting parts of plants that are not known to be safe for consumption. If unsure about the edibility or toxicity of any plant, it is best to consult with a medical professional or a local poison control center.
To pets
There is limited information on the toxicity of button snakeroot (Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides) to pets. It is not commonly reported as a toxic plant to household animals. However, pets should not be allowed to ingest plants that are not confirmed to be non-toxic. If there are concerns about a pet having ingested this plant, it is advisable to contact a veterinarian promptly. Symptoms of plant toxicity in pets can vary, but may include gastrointestinal upset, lethargy, drooling, vomiting, or diarrhea. It is always better to err on the side of caution and prevent pets from consuming unknown plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Varies
Height
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Spread
1 foot (0.30 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Argentina
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental value: Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides, also known as Tall Eryngo, provides aesthetic appeal to gardens with its unique spiny foliage and attractive flower heads.
- Drought resistance: Tall Eryngo is known for its ability to withstand dry conditions, making it suitable for xeriscaping and water-efficient landscapes.
- Wildlife attractant: The flowers of Tall Eryngo can attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- Low maintenance: Once established, Tall Eryngo requires minimal care, which can save time and resources for gardeners and landscapers.
- Soil stabilization: With its deep root system, Tall Eryngo can help prevent soil erosion in certain environments.
- Adaptability: This plant can thrive in a variety of soil types and pH levels, making it versatile for different garden settings.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Erosion Control: Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides, commonly known as Tall Eryngo, can be used in landscape restoration projects to help stabilize soil and combat erosion due to its robust root system.
- Insectary Plant: Tall Eryngo can be planted in gardens to attract beneficial insects, such as predatory wasps and bees, which help control pest populations and pollinate crops.
- Dried Floral Arrangements: The unique appearance of Tall Eryngo's spiny flower heads makes them an attractive choice for inclusion in dried floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Botanical Illustration and Photography: Due to its striking form and color, Tall Eryngo is an excellent subject for botanical artists and photographers seeking to capture the beauty of unique plants.
- Water-wise Gardening: As a drought-tolerant plant, Tall Eryngo can be incorporated into xeriscaping and low-water gardens to reduce irrigation needs.
- Thematic Gardening: Its distinctive appearance allows Tall Eryngo to be featured in gardens themed around medieval or fantasy concepts, providing an otherworldly atmosphere.
- Education and Research: Tall Eryngo can be included in educational programs and botanical research to study plant adaptation in arid environments and the biodiversity of grassland ecosystems.
- Livestock Feed: In regions where it is native and traditional knowledge persists, Tall Eryngo may be used as an emergency forage for livestock during times of drought.
- Crafting and Ornamentation: The rigid, sculptural stems and bracts of Tall Eryngo can be used in crafting, for instance, as natural elements in wreaths or decorative displays.
- Folk Art Material: In some cultures, the sturdy structure of Tall Eryngo is used in folk art creations, such as constructing miniature representations of creatures or fantasy settings.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Eryngo is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Eryngo is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides, commonly known as Button Eryngo, often thrives in tough conditions, symbolizing the ability to withstand adversity and bounce back.
- Unique Beauty: With its distinctive appearance, Button Eryngo represents the beauty in being unique and standing out from the crowd.
- Protection: Historically, Eryngium species were believed to offer protection, suggesting that Button Eryngo symbolizes a safeguard against harm.
- Independence: Button Eryngo's hardy nature embodies self-reliance and the power of independence.
WaterFor Tall Flat-top Eryngo, water the plant deeply to encourage root growth, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings as they are drought-tolerant. Typically, watering once every one to two weeks should suffice, applying approximately 1 to 1.5 gallons per watering for established plants, depending on the climate and weather conditions. During the growing season, make sure the water penetrates the soil to a depth of at least 4 inches. Cut back on watering in the cooler months when the plant is dormant.
LightTall Flat-top Eryngo thrives in full sun conditions, requiring six or more hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is in an area where it can receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, ensuring it has exposure to the sun's rays during the peak hours from morning to afternoon.
TemperatureTall Flat-top Eryngo prefers warmer temperatures and can tolerate a range from 50°F to 80°F, with ideal growth occurring between 60°F and 75°F. It is capable of surviving occasional dips down to about 40°F, but frost and prolonged exposure to temperatures below this range can be detrimental to the plant.
PruningPrune Tall Flat-top Eryngo to remove spent flowers and tidy up the plant's appearance. Pruning can be done after flowering, typically in late summer or fall. Regularly removing dead or damaged stems helps maintain the plant's health and may encourage new growth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe ideal soil mix for Tall Flat Sea Holly (Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides) should be well-draining with a mixture of loam, peat, and sharp sand/grit. It is recommended to maintain a soil pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral (5.8 to 7.0). Adding organic matter can improve soil structure and nutrient content.
RepottingTall Flat Sea Holly should be repotted every two to three years or when it outgrows its current container. This species does not like to be disturbed frequently, so minimal repotting is preferred to avoid stress.
Humidity & MistingTall Flat Sea Holly thrives in average room humidity levels. High humidity is not required for this plant, making it a suitable choice for most indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Choose a sunny spot with good drainage.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleEryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides, commonly known as the sea holly, begins its life cycle with seed germination when conditions are favorable, typically requiring a period of stratification to break seed dormancy. After germination, the seedling emerges and develops a rosette of spiny, basal leaves during its vegetative stage. As the plant matures, it produces a flowering stalk and develops small, blue or purplish spiky flowers arranged in thistle-like heads that attract pollinators. Following pollination, the flowers turn into fruit, typically a small, dry schizocarp containing seeds ready for dispersal. The plant completes its life cycle annually or biennially, dying after setting seed, although some individuals may persist longer as perennials. Natural factors such as herbivory, competition, and climate can influence the life cycle of the sea holly at various stages.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The most popular method of propagation for Eryngium ebracteatum var. poterioides, commonly known as eryngo, is by seed. The best time to sow eryngo seeds is in late winter or early spring, after the danger of frost has passed. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil at a shallow depth, approximately 1/8 inch (about 3 mm) deep, and kept consistently moist until germination, which usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks. It's important to provide adequate light for seedlings once they emerge. The seedlings can be thinned or transplanted once they've grown large enough to handle, typically when they have at least a couple of true leaves. For best results, the young plants should be acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting them in their final location.
