Eryngium × zabelii 'Neptune's Gold' (PBR)
ABOUT
'Neptune's Gold' is a striking plant with a bold display of foliage and flowers. Its leaves are a unique feature; they emerge with a bright golden-yellow hue that creates a vivid contrast in the garden. As the season progresses, the foliage transitions into a softer yellow-green, maintaining its eye-catching appeal. The distinctive spiky flowers rise above the foliage, presenting in a steel blue color, which adds a dramatic touch to the plant's overall appearance. Each flower head is made up of tiny, tightly-clustered blooms that create an intricate, thistle-like effect. These blooms are not only beautiful but are also known to attract a variety of pollinators, adding life and movement to its surroundings. The contrast between the golden foliage and the blue flowers makes 'Neptune's Gold' a centerpiece in any setting where an eye-popping splash of color is desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Apiaceae.
Synonyms
Sea Holly, Neptune's Gold Sea Holly.
Common names
Eryngium × zabelii 'Neptune's Gold' (PBR).
ToxicityTo humans
Sea holly, specifically the Eryngium × zabelii 'Neptune's Gold' variety, is generally not known to be toxic to humans. However, like many ornamental plants, it is not intended for consumption, and eating it may cause discomfort or an upset stomach. If large quantities are ingested, or if an individual has a particular sensitivity, more serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea could occur. Always handle plants with care, as some people may experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction to certain plant saps or prickles.
To pets
Sea holly, or Eryngium × zabelii 'Neptune's Gold', is not commonly listed as a toxic plant for pets. Nevertheless, ingestion of ornamental plants is generally discouraged as it may cause gastrointestinal upset in animals. Symptoms from ingesting parts of this plant could include vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. While not specifically toxic, if a pet consumes a large amount of the plant or shows any signs of distress, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian. Additionally, the spiky leaves may cause physical irritation or injury to the mouth or digestive tract.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Variegated
Flower color
Blue
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Hybrid
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Foliage: The unique golden-yellow foliage adds a bright splash of color to gardens and landscaping.
- Low Maintenance: This plant does not require frequent care, making it ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance options.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, it has a good tolerance for dry conditions, reducing the need for regular watering.
- Pollinator-Friendly: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Long-Lasting Blooms: It produces flowers over a long period, typically from summer through to autumn, which enhances the garden's aesthetic appeal.
- Deer Resistant: It is known to be resistant to browsing by deer, making it suitable for gardens in areas with high deer populations.
- Versatile Planting Options: It is suitable for borders, rock gardens, and coastal gardens, offering diverse landscaping uses.
- Compact Growth Habit: Its moderate size makes it easy to fit into smaller spaces without overcrowding.
- Structural Interest: The bristly flower heads and distinctive leaf color provide interesting texture as well as visual interest.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms can be used in fresh or dried floral arrangements, providing an additional functional benefit.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Eryngium 'Neptune's Gold' can be used as an unusual soft filler material when dried for art installations and avant-garde fashion designs owing to its striking coloration.
- The spikey texture of Sea Holly is sometimes used by florists to add an unexpected element to wedding bouquets and corsages, promoting a touch of marine-inspired theming.
- In craft projects, the dried stems and flowers of Sea Holly can be incorporated into homemade paper to create unique textures and patterns.
- Sea Holly can be used as a natural dye source for textiles, providing hues ranging from soft yellow to greenish-gold depending on the mordant used.
- The unique color and form of Sea Holly are occasionally used by photographers as subjects in macro photography workshops to teach texture and color contrast.
- Sea Holly is sometimes planted in gardens as a way to create a tactile experience for visually impaired individuals, due to its distinct and easily identified texture.
- Gardeners may use Sea Holly 'Neptune's Gold' as an indicator plant; its color can change in response to soil pH, helping to monitor the soil conditions without testing kits.
- Cooking enthusiasts might crystallize Sea Holly flowers to create an unconventional decoration for desserts that contrasts the sweet flavor with its naturally bold look.
- Sea Holly is often incorporated into eco-friendly burial practices, used to adorn biodegradable coffins or urns with its symbolic association to the sea and eternal life.
- The robust nature of Sea Holly makes its leaves an unconventional choice for creating plant-based molds or stamps for use in pottery or relief printing.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Sea Holly is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Sea Holly is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Determination and Strength: The Eryngium genus, commonly referred to as Sea Holly, has a tough, spiky appearance that symbolizes resilience and a robust character, much like the god Neptune in mythology with his formidable trident.
- Protection: With its prickly texture and defensive look, Sea Holly can also represent protection and a sense of safeguarding, reminiscent of Neptune's role as a protector over his domain.
- Attraction and Allure: The unique blue and gold hues of 'Neptune's Gold' Sea Holly are attractive, often symbolizing allure and fascination, highlighting the plant’s captivating presence in gardens and arrangements.
- Uniqueness: This particular cultivar stands out for its distinct gold-tinted leaves, suggesting a symbolism of originality and the appreciation of unique, inherent beauty.
WaterSea holly 'Neptune's Gold' prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. You should water the plant thoroughly, allowing water to penetrate the soil to a depth of several inches. The frequency of watering should be adjusted based on weather conditions, with more frequent watering during prolonged dry spells and less during cooler, wetter periods. Generally, providing about 1 gallon of water per week during the peak of summer should suffice. Make sure to avoid overwatering, as this plant is drought tolerant and excess moisture can lead to root rot.
LightSea holly 'Neptune's Gold' thrives best in full sun, which means the plant should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Position it in a spot that has clear, unfiltered sunlight to ensure optimal growth and flower production. Avoid heavily shaded areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor plant performance and less vigorous blooming.
TemperatureSea holly 'Neptune's Gold' is a relatively hardy plant, tolerating temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive in temperatures reaching up to 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, especially if it is well watered and in a location with good air circulation.
PruningSea holly 'Neptune's Gold' should be pruned to remove spent flower heads and encourage a second bloom. Trimming should be done after the main flowering period, usually in late summer or early autumn. Pruning can also be used to shape the plant and maintain a desirable size and form. Dead leaves and stems should be cut back in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilSea Holly 'Neptune's Gold' thrives in well-draining soil with a mix of loam, sand, and compost. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingSea Holly 'Neptune's Gold' should be repotted every 2-3 years to ensure it has enough space and fresh soil to continue growing.
Humidity & MistingSea Holly 'Neptune's Gold' prefers average to low humidity levels, typical of most indoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide full light, limited water, and avoid high humidity.
Outdoor
Needs full sun, well-drained soil, and infrequent watering.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Eryngium × zabelii 'Neptune's Gold' (PBR), commonly known as Sea Holly, begins with the germination of seeds, which typically occurs in spring under appropriate moisture, light, and temperature conditions. Following germination, seedlings develop into juvenile plants, characterized by the growth of foliage with the distinctive gold and green variegated leaves this cultivar is known for. As the plant matures, it enters the vegetative stage, during which it forms a rosette of spiky leaves and begins to establish a strong root system. Flowering occurs in summer, producing striking steel-blue or amethyst conical flower heads on branched stems, attracting bees and other pollinators. After pollination and seed set, the plant may undergo a period of dormancy in colder climates, where dieback of the aerial parts occurs, and the perennating organ (the root) survives through the winter. The cycle begins anew the following spring when new growth emerges from the remaining root system.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Eryngium × zabelii 'Neptune's Gold' (PBR), commonly known as sea holly, is typically propagated by division, which is considered the most popular method. Division should be carried out in early spring or autumn when the plant is not in active growth. To propagate by division, carefully lift the plant from the ground using a garden fork, ensuring to keep a good amount of root attached to each clump. Then, using a sharp knife or spade, divide the plant into smaller sections, each with some roots and shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same soil depth they were originally growing, and water thoroughly. The divisions should be spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. This method allows gardeners to quickly and effectively expand their collection of Eryngium 'Neptune's Gold'.
