SEA HOLLY SEEDS

Eryngium maritimum

Eryngo. An ancient medicinal, one prescribed by Dioscorides. Considered an antitussive and expectorant, the candied root was historically available tinned like a Smith Bros', and its effect probably just as trivial. Occasionally considered an aphrodisiac, although this seems even less likely. The flavor of the root is indeed unique and pleasant and probably worth a forage should you find yourself on a British shore, but this is a truly lovely ornamental species and rare enough in the trade that a gardener dare not lift it.

Stunning blue plants with spiney bracts. Grows to just over 1' in bloom. Violet flowers in late summer and autumn attract lots of bees and butterflies. Native to the seacoasts of northwestern Europe, this species prefers full sun and moist but sharply drained soils. Salt-tolerant and deerproof. Hardy to at least zone 5, but will not overwinter in wet soils. Best in the rock garden.

These seeds germinate very erratically and may benefit from stratification. Tuck just beneath the surface of moist soil, pressing to keep seed snug. Kept moist in bright light at cool room temperature, a few seeds may or may not germinate in a few weeks. If no germination after three weeks, cover the pot with plastic and pop it into the refrigerator for at least two weeks before returning to cool room temperature. Do not use heat. Keep the soil moist at all times and check frequently for germination. Seeds may also be sown in a cold greenhouse or unheated screen porch in late winter. These seeds will typically begin to germinate during the first warm days of spring. Again, take care to maintain constant moisture. Prick out seedlings with true leaves to grow on in deep 6" pots at room temperature in bright light. Fertilize weekly with dilute seaweed emulsion. Transplant into warm loose well-drained soil in full sun in spring or autumn.

Packet contains at least 10 seeds.