Eryngium x zabelii 'Pen Blue'

Common Name:
Pen Blue Sea Holly

Description:
Eryngium x zabelii 'Pen Blue' is a striking perennial known for its sculptural form, spiny texture, and intense metallic-blue colouring. This eye-catching variety produces cone-shaped flower heads surrounded by a collar of stiff, spiky bracts in vivid electric blue, perched atop strong, upright stems that rise above deeply toothed, thistle-like foliage. Flowering through summer, 'Pen Blue' adds bold structure and colour contrast to mixed borders, dry gardens, and contemporary landscapes. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, particularly in Melbourne’s dry summers, and is exceptionally drought-tolerant once established. Beloved by pollinators, especially bees, its long-lasting blooms also make excellent cut or dried flowers. Minimal maintenance is required beyond removing spent flowers and ensuring good drainage.

Form:
*Shrub - Small
*Shrub - Clumping / Grass-like / Mounding

Mature Size:
*Height: 40–60 cm
*Width: 30–50 cm

Aspect:
*Full Sun

Flowering:
*Flowers in Summer

Flower Colour:
*Metallic Blue
*Steel Blue

Key Attributes:
*Suitable for Pots
*Bee Attracting
*Drought Tolerant
*Perennial
*Herbaceous
*Suitable for Cut Flowers
*Suitable for Dried Flowers
*Low Maintenance
*Deer and Rabbit Resistant

Toxicity:
Not considered toxic to humans or animals. Leaves and bracts are spiny and may cause skin irritation if handled without gloves.

Companion Plants:
*Lavandula angustifolia
*Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’
*Achillea ‘Moonshine’
*Perovskia atriplicifolia
*Salvia nemorosa