When you want your bouquet to stand out, Eryngium steps in with style. That cone-shaped blossom surrounded by starburst petals brings structure, bold texture, and a modern edge to every arrangement.
Whether you’re creating a special gift or decorating your home, Eryngium transforms a typical flower mix into something memorable. Those sharp bracts catch the light and draw the eye, inviting a second look.
Plus, its hardy nature makes it a florist favorite that lasts far longer than many delicate blooms.
A Quick Overview Of Eryngium
Sea holly or Eryngium blooms have a distinctive look, combining a central conical head with surrounding bracts that fan out like a crown of pointed stars. The colors range from cool steel-blue and soft silvery-gray to deep purple-green. You might even spot rare green or white varieties, but all share that bold, architectural form.
This intriguing shape creates a sculptural effect, turning bouquets into visual statements. Unlike soft petals that fold in, Eryngium bracts stand firm and angular, adding contrast when paired with rounder flowers like roses or peonies. It’s the texture and shape that make it unforgettable.
1. Eryngium Planum (Blue Sea Holly)
Blue Sea Holly grows 1 to 3 feet tall, producing steel-blue, globe-shaped blooms on long stems. The color catches light beautifully and holds up even as the flower ages.
Gardeners love it for its reliable blooms that start in midsummer and continue into fall. In bouquets, it adds height and a cool tone that complements warm-colored blooms perfectly. Even when dried, its shape and hue stay vibrant.
2. Eryngium Alpinum (Alpine Sea Holly)
Alpine Sea Holly brings a deeper purple-blue shade to the mix. Its cone-shaped flowers are surrounded by frilly bracts, giving bouquets a delicate, forest-like charm.
It thrives in cooler climates, making it a great addition to spring gardens and summer bouquets. The soft, lace-y appearance of its bracts offsets sharper flowers, offering a wild, yet elegant touch.
3. Eryngium Giganteum (Miss Willmott’s Ghost)
True to its name, this variety provides ghostly white blooms with subtle silver tones and strong stems that stand over two feet tall. The flower heads have a delicate, ethereal feel that calls to mind fairytales.
This biennial can surprise you in the garden, popping up the second year after planting with elegant blooms. Florists love its pale color for adding a dreamy, vintage edge, and gardeners appreciate its winter interest- those dried spiky heads peek out even under snow.
4. Eryngium Bourgatii (Mediterranean Sea Holly)
This compact variety stays under two feet tall, with clusters of bright blue bracts. Its smaller size makes it ideal for medium bouquets or container gardens.
It offers just the right texture to balance round flowers like dahlias or ranunculus without overpowering them. Gardeners prize it for its easy care and adaptability in rock gardens or border edges.
5. Eryngium Planum ‘Blue Glitter’
‘Blue Glitter’ is a fancy take on classic sea holly. Its blooms sparkle with deep blue shimmer and appear in greater abundance on branching stems.
Florists often use it for wedding or seasonal arrangements that need a pop of shine. Its sparkling bracts give bouquets a touch of whimsy, and the sturdy stems keep everything supported and upright.
6. Eryngium Planum ‘Jade Frost’
With steel-blue blooms mingling with creamy-pink edged leaves, ‘Jade Frost’ adds frost-like elegance to arrangements. The foliage itself is attractive, bringing hints of green and cream.
In flower hand bouquets, the foliage alone can shine. When in bloom, it gives a frosted accent that’s ideal for winter or botanical-themed designs.
Best Color Combinations With Eryngium
Eryngium’s cool, spiky texture and steel-blue tones make it incredibly versatile. The secret is pairing it with the right colors and shapes to either complement or contrast its bold form.
Soft and Romantic
For delicate, dreamy arrangements, combine Eryngium with:
- Blush roses
- White peonies
- Pale pink ranunculus
- Dusty lavender or lilac
These combinations give off a calming, romantic vibe, perfect for weddings or heartfelt gifts.
Bold and Vibrant
Eryngium also pops beautifully against warm, rich colors like:
- Deep red dahlias
- Burnt orange marigolds
- Bright yellow sunflowers
- Coral zinnias
This style works well for fall arrangements or bold centerpiece bouquets.
Cool and Modern
For a sleek, minimal look, use Eryngium with:
- White calla lilies
- Green succulents
- Pale blue hydrangeas
- Cream-toned orchids
These clean combinations are great for contemporary interiors or events.
Earthy and Natural
To bring out the wild side of Eryngium, try:
- Tan or beige bunny tails
- Olive greenery
- Dried thistles
- Eucalyptus stems
This earthy mix is perfect for rustic weddings, dried bouquets, or seasonal home décor.
No matter your style, Eryngium brings strong structure and subtle shimmer. It helps unify multiple colors or adds contrast where needed; just adjust the surrounding tones to match the mood you want.
Care Tips For Eryngium
Here’s how to make the most of this beautiful, spiky bloom:
- Trim at an Angle: When you first bring your Eryngium home, trim the stems at a sharp angle under running water or submerged in a bowl. This helps the stem absorb water better and keeps the flowers hydrated for longer.
- Use Clean Water: Place the stems in a vase filled with fresh, room-temperature water. Be sure to change the water every two days. Clean water helps prevent bacteria from forming, which can cause your flowers to wilt faster.
- Remove Lower Leaves: Before putting the stems in water, strip off any leaves that will sit below the waterline. This step reduces bacteria and keeps your bouquet looking clean and neat.
- Place in Cool Areas: Avoid placing your elegant flower arrangement near direct sunlight, radiators, or heat vents. Eryngium prefers cooler temperatures and good air circulation. A shaded windowsill or a cool countertop is ideal.
- Dry With Ease: Want to preserve your blooms? Eryngium dries beautifully. Simply bundle a few stems together and hang them upside down in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated space. Within a few weeks, they’ll be fully dried and ready to use in dried bouquets or as long-lasting décor.
Conclusion On The Types Of Eryngium
With spiky bloom heads, cool tones, and lasting structure, Eryngium varieties bring artful texture and personality to every arrangement. Give your next bouquet unexpected flair with one of these Eryngium types.
Looking to add something bold and beautiful to your next floral gift? Contact Windflower Florist today to create something unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Types Of Eryngium
Can Eryngium Be Used in Wedding Bouquets?
Absolutely. It adds texture and a modern edge to romantic blooms.
How Long Does Eryngium Last in a Vase?
10 to 14 days with proper care, and even longer when dried.
Is It Easy to Dry Eryngium?
Yes. Hang upside down in a cool place and they hold their shape and color.
Does Eryngium Have a Fragrance?
It has a slight earthiness, but is appreciated for visual impact, not scent.
Is Sea Holly Deer Resistant?
Yes. Those prickly bracts deter deer and rabbits from nibbling.
