15 Best Eryngium Varieties | Types of Sea Holly

Discover the beauty and diversity of Eryngium, also known as Sea Holly, with our guide to the Best Eryngium Varieties. From their spiky, vibrant blooms to their unique textures, explore the different Types of Sea Holly that will add charm and interest to your garden.

Botanical Name: Eryngium planum ‘Blue Hobbit’

USDA Zones: 4-8

Height and Spread: 12 and 12 inches

Blue Hobbit is a compact sea holly that features thimble-like flowerheads and short bracts on branching stems. It displays a rich steel blue color during mid to late summer.

Botanical Name: Eryngium × zabelii ‘Big Blue’

USDA Zones: 5-9

Height and Spread: 30 and 12 inches

Eryngium × zabelii ‘Big Blue’ is an exceptional blue sea holly variety, recognized with the prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

Botanical Name: Eryngium x oliverianum

USDA Zones: 4-8

Height and Spread: 3 and 2 feet

E. x oliverianum is an excellent sea holly variety that is ideal for cutting and drying. Its flower heads can also be left on the border to provide structure during winter.

Botanical Name: Eryngium × tripartitum

USDA Zones: 5-9

Height and Spread: 2 and 1 foot

It is delicate sea holly with slender stems, small egg-shaped flower heads, and spike bracts. The plant pairs beautifully with ornamental grasses.

Botanical Name: Eryngium giganteum ‘Silver Ghost’

USDA Zones: 4-7

Height and Spread: 3 and 1 feet

Silver Ghost is a captivating self-sowing biennial sea holly that adds a touch of silver sparkle to any garden. It thrives in well-drained soil.

Botanical Name: Eryngium maritimum

USDA Zones: 5-9

Height and Spread: 18 and 24 inches

This sea holly features soft violet-blue flowerheads and waxy blue-grey foliage with spiked edges. It pairs beautifully with poppies.