Moroccan Sea Holly, ,Flower Seeds

Eryngium variifolium — Moroccan Sea Holly, also called Marble-Leaf Sea Holly — is a distinctive, architectural perennial prized by flower arrangers worldwide for its branching heads of white flowers with spiny blue bracts, equally striking fresh or dried. What sets this species apart is its gorgeous evergreen foliage: deep green leaves beautifully marbled with white veins that provide year-round garden interest even when out of bloom. Compact enough for rock gardens, sunny borders, and containers. Extremely tolerant of hot, dry sites once established; salt spray tolerant. Hardy perennial.

Plant Highlights

• White flower heads with spiny blue bracts — outstanding fresh and dried cut flower
• Striking marbled white-veined evergreen foliage — year-round garden interest in mild regions
• Compact habit — suitable for rock gardens, sunny borders, and containers
• Very tolerant of hot, dry sites once established; salt spray tolerant
• Hardy perennial; low-maintenance once established

Sowing Guide

Sowing depth: Cover seed with 5mm (approx. ¼ inch) of compost or grit.

Conditions: Keep moist in a cool, covered, well-lit spot outside. No heat required. Sea hollies are often spring germinators — seeds may take a full winter cold period before germinating.

Seedling care: Grow on seedlings in 3-inch pots until well-established before transplanting. Plant out into good, well-drained garden soil in a sunny position.

Planting Specs

• Common name: Moroccan Sea Holly, Marble-Leaf Sea Holly
• Botanical name: Eryngium variifolium
• Type: Hardy perennial
• Foliage: Evergreen in mild winters; deep green marbled with white veins
• Bloom: White with spiny blue bracts; excellent fresh or dried
• Light: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained — tolerates hot, dry, poor, and sandy soils
• Salt tolerance: Yes
• Germination: Cool outdoor stratification; often spring germinator
• Sowing depth: 5mm compost or grit cover
• Use: Borders, rock gardens, containers, cut and dried flower arrangements