Eryngium planum Blue Hobbit

Eryngium planum 'Blue Hobbit', or Flat-leaved Sea Holly 'Blue Hobbit', is a superb summer perennial. From June to September, its intense metallic blue star-shaped flowers are carried on short, spiny, branching stems, resembling a thistle. The very toothed, bright green leaves contrast well with the inflorescences. 

This sea holly belongs, even though the relationship is not obvious, to the same family as carrots: the Apiaceae family (formerly known as Umbelliferae). The wild species is native to central Europe. 'Blue Hobbit' is a dwarf variety that will not exceed 30cm (12in) in height and width. These plants often live only a few years, but can self-seed if the soil suits them. You can thus perpetuate them in the garden.

Eryngium planum 'Blue Hobbit' likes heat and drought. It adapts to all stony, deep, well-drained, sunny soils with a calcareous tendency. It even tolerates coastal areas. It cannot endure humidity (especially in winter). To prolong its decorative effect, you can leave the dry stems in place. Alternatively, use the stems to make dried bouquets, as they retain their beautiful colours when drying.

This sculptural plant will find its place in a rock garden, border, or wild or contemporary garden alongside Gauras, euphorbias, low grasses such as Bouteloua gracilis, or even thymes to add an aromatic note.