Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star' – The sculptural Alpine sea holly with an unprecedented blue hue

Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star', known in Dutch as Alpine Sea Holly, is a real eye-catcher in the garden thanks to its vibrant blue, spiky flowers and elegant, architectural shape. This professional selection was developed specifically for cut flower production, but is equally effective in ornamental gardens. With its metallic sheen, silver stems, and striking textured effect, 'Blue Star' brings a modern, almost futuristic look to the border.
Combined with its drought tolerance, vigorous growth, and attractiveness to pollinators, this Eryngium is a perfect choice for those looking for a unique, low-maintenance plant.

Vibrant blue, metallic bloom that instantly stands out

The flowers of Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star' are among the most striking in the genus. The flower heads are spiky, thistle-like, and have an exceptionally vibrant blue color that ranges from bright cobalt to deep metallic blue.
This hue is further enhanced by the involucre (the finely serrated "collar" surrounding the flower), which also glow bright blue. This makes the plant appear to almost glow in the sunlight.

The flowering habit is not only intensely colorful but also highly structured: the combination of spiky shapes, rigid lines, and metallic sheen creates a sculptural effect that instantly adds character to modern borders. The plant typically blooms in July and August, precisely the time when many gardens could benefit from additional pops of color.

Ideal for cut flower production

'Blue Star' was initially developed as a professional cut flower, and this is evident in several characteristics:

• Sturdy, straight silvery stems

• Long shelf life in vases

• Striking colour that lasts well

• Perfect shape for bouquets and flower arrangements

Even dried, the stems and flower heads retain much of their structure and hue, making them suitable for dried flower creations and decorative arrangements.

Sculptural elegance in the garden

In the ornamental garden, Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star' adds a powerful, modern look. Its thistle-like, spiky flowers contrast beautifully with lush, soft, or rounded plants.
Its silvery-blue color makes it a perfect fit for:

• Modern and minimalist gardens

• Prairie planting

• Rock gardens and gravel gardens

• Sunny borders with ornamental grasses

• Mediterranean vegetation

The plant reaches a height of about 70 to 90 cm, which makes it suitable for the middle of the border, where it combines colour and structure without being overpowering.

Drought tolerant, strong and low maintenance

Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star' is ideal for gardeners looking for an easy-care plant with maximum ornamental value. The Alpine sea holly prefers full sun and well-drained, dry to moderately moist soil.
Once established, the plant is highly drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for climate-resistant gardens.

Maintenance is minimal:

• Remove old stems in spring

• Provide a dry location

• Only water during prolonged drought in the first year

Furthermore, the plant is very winter hardy and comes back reliably every year.

A magnet for bees and pollinators

Besides its ornamental qualities, Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star' is an excellent bee plant. The richly structured blooms attract:

• Bees

• Bumblebees

• Gliding

• Butterflies

The nectar production makes the plant particularly valuable in gardens where biodiversity plays an important role.

Why choose Eryngium alpinum 'Blue Star'?

• Intense metallic blue, thistle-like flowers

• Professional selection for cut flower production

• Sculptural and architectural structure

• Drought tolerant and low maintenance

• Attractive to bees and other pollinators

• Hardy and excellent for sunny borders

• Unique eye-catcher that enriches modern and natural gardens