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Why we like this plant
Eryngium × zabelii 'Big Blue' brings a dramatic, sculptural element to the garden with its dazzling blue blooms and spiky form. Its resilience to drought, poor soils, and wildlife make it a low-maintenance yet high-impact addition to borders, gravel gardens, and floral arrangements.
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About this plant
A standout in any garden, Eryngium × zabelii 'Big Blue' is prized for its vibrant, long-lasting metallic-blue flowerheads, which sit atop sturdy, silvery stems. The deeply serrated, spiky foliage provides striking contrast, making it a perfect choice for contemporary, prairie-style, and wildlife gardens. Flowering from mid to late summer, this drought-tolerant perennial attracts bees and butterflies while being highly resistant to deer and rabbits. It thrives in poor, well-drained soils and is an excellent choice for cut flowers, both fresh and dried.
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Key features
- Brilliant metallic-blue thistle-like flowers
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators
- Drought-tolerant and thrives in poor soils
- Architectural spiky foliage for added texture
- Excellent for fresh and dried flower arrangements
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Height and
spread -
Growth
habitUpright, clump-forming
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Moisture
Prefers dry to moderately moist conditions; drought-tolerant once established
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Position in
the GardenSunny borders, gravel gardens, coastal areas, and wildlife gardens
Planting guide
- Space plants about 30-45cm apart
- Ensure well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Ideal for gravel gardens, coastal planting, and mixed borders
Care tips
- Plant in well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
- Prefers full sun for best colour intensity
- Avoid excessive fertiliser to maintain compact growth
- Cut back after flowering to promote fresh growth
Winter care
- Leave seed heads for winter interest and wildlife
- Mulch lightly in colder regions to protect roots
- Cut back dead stems in early spring