Eryngiums, also known as sea hollies, have a wild, untamed beauty that’s hard to ignore. With their spiky, thistle-like flowers and silvery-blue hues, they bring an edge to even the softest floral arrangements.
In this blog, we’re going to explore the 6 types of eryngium that flower lovers and gardeners are falling for. Whether you’re picking blooms for a bouquet or looking to add character to your garden, this one’s for you.
1. Eryngium Planum (Blue Sea Holly)
Eryngium planum is the quintessential sea holly, known for its striking metallic-blue flower heads perched on wiry, branching stems. Its spiky, almost sculptural texture contrasts beautifully with soft, round blooms like roses, dahlias, or peonies.
Florists love it for its remarkable vase life—it stays fresh long after other flowers fade, even drying gracefully for everlasting arrangements. In a bouquet, it adds a cool-toned pop and a slightly wild, untamed edge, perfect for modern, coastal, or boho-inspired designs.
2. Eryngium Giganteum (Miss Willmott’s Ghost)
This showstopper earns its nickname from Ellen Willmott, who famously scattered its seeds in unsuspecting gardens, leaving a silvery surprise behind. With its large, spiky bracts and tall, commanding presence, Eryngium giganteum brings drama to any arrangement.
The pale, ghostly silver tones pair effortlessly with whites, greens, or deep jewel hues, creating an ethereal, almost otherworldly vibe. Its unusual texture draws the eye, making it an ideal accent flower for avant-garde wedding bouquets or striking centerpiece displays.
3. Eryngium Alpinum (Alpine Sea Holly)
Alpine Sea Holly has a softer, feathery appearance compared to its cousins, with delicate bracts in shimmering shades of blue and violet. It brings a touch of elegance and whimsy to arrangements, softening the typically sharp look of eryngium while still adding texture and interest.
This variety works beautifully in rustic, romantic, or garden-gathered bouquets, complementing wildflowers, scabiosa, or astilbe. Its cool, silvery-blue tones make it a favorite for mountain-themed weddings or any bouquet with a natural, airy aesthetic.
4. Eryngium Bourgatii
Compact but full of personality, Eryngium bourgatii features vivid steel-blue blooms surrounded by marbled, white-veined foliage that’s as striking as the flowers themselves.
Its shorter stature makes it perfect for hand-tied bouquets, table arrangements, or mixed planters where you want a pop of color and intricate texture. It pairs well with softer flowers like lisianthus or ranunculus, providing visual contrast that instantly makes a bouquet more dynamic and eye-catching.
5. Eryngium Varifolium (Moroccan Sea Holly)
This North African native stands out with its bold, white-veined leaves that frame its small, steely-blue flowers. Though the blooms themselves are subtler than other eryngiums, the foliage adds an architectural element that elevates floral designs.
Moroccan Sea Holly is perfect for textured, greenery-heavy arrangements where the foliage is as important as the flowers, pairing beautifully with minimalist, contemporary styles or as a unique filler in dried arrangements.
6. Eryngium Yuccifolium (Rattlesnake Master)
With its spiky white globes and long, sword-like leaves, Eryngium yuccifolium brings a completely different vibe to bouquets—a striking, structural silhouette that feels almost desert-inspired.
While it lacks the signature blue tones of other eryngiums, its clean, pale blooms make it a versatile addition to neutral, modern, or dried arrangements. It pairs beautifully with pampas grass, succulents, or earthy florals, adding an unexpected sculptural element that gives designs a fresh, editorial look.
How To Use Eryngium In Floral Arrangements
Whether fresh or dried, eryngiums hold their shape and colour beautifully. They’re excellent for adding vertical lines, depth, and texture. In bouquets, they pair beautifully with soft roses, peonies, and eucalyptus. Their cool tones help balance warmer flowers like dahlias or sunflowers.
You can also dry them and keep them as part of your home décor. Eryngium doesn’t crumble the way some dried flowers do, which means you can keep enjoying them for months.
Conclusion About The Types Of Eryngium
Eryngiums might not be your typical bouquet star, but they certainly know how to turn heads. Whether you're looking to freshen up your garden or want a bouquet with character, exploring these 6 types of eryngium is a great place to start.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Types Of Eryngium
What Is Eryngium Commonly Known As?
Eryngium is often referred to as sea holly, thanks to its spiky, thistle-like appearance and cool tones.
Are All Types Of Eryngium Suitable For Bouquets?
Most types are, especially Eryngium planum and alpinum. They hold up well and add a dramatic touch to arrangements.
Can Eryngium Be Dried For Long-Term Use?
Yes, they dry beautifully. Their shape and colour remain intact, making them perfect for long-lasting home décor.
Do Eryngiums Attract Pollinators?
Absolutely. Bees and butterflies love them, especially the blue-toned varieties.
Is Eryngium Easy To Grow At Home?
Yes, it’s low-maintenance and thrives in well-drained soil with lots of sun. It’s perfect for beginner gardeners.
