A striking perennial producing cones of tiny blue flowers surrounded by deeply cut, deep blue bracts held on sturdy, reddish-blue stems. Height 55cm. Spread 50cm. Flowers July and August. Full sun, well drained soil. Hardy.
Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ is a striking perennial, valued for its spiny, thistle-like foliage and stunning metallic-blue to violet bracts that surround clusters of cone-shaped flowers. Blooming from midsummer into early autumn, this hardy perennial adds dramatic structure and vibrant colour to borders, gravel gardens, and wildlife-friendly spaces. Loved by bees and butterflies, it is both ornamental and pollinator-friendly, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting summer interest.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: Planting Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ in spring allows the roots to settle and establish before flowering begins in summer.
• Autumn: Early autumn planting is also effective, giving the plant time to root in before winter dormancy and encouraging strong growth the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ thrives in full sun, where it develops its strongest flower colour and the most compact habit.
• Soil: Choose free-draining soil for best results. Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ tolerates poor or sandy soils well, provided they do not remain waterlogged. Adding grit or coarse sand improves drainage if necessary.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole slightly wider than the root ball but no deeper.
Soil Preparation: If the soil is heavy, mix in horticultural grit or sand to improve drainage.
Planting: Position Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ with the crown level to the soil surface. Backfill with the amended soil and firm gently.
Watering: Water lightly after planting to settle the soil, but avoid waterlogging. Once established, the plant is drought-tolerant.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ is drought-tolerant once established. Water sparingly during prolonged dry periods, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
• Dormant Season: Little to no watering is required during winter dormancy, unless conditions are unusually dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy foliage and strong flower production.
• Mid-Summer: A light liquid feed while in bloom can help extend the flowering period.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove spent flower stems to maintain a tidy appearance and prolong flowering.
• Autumn/Winter: Leave some seed heads of Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ intact if desired, as they add architectural winter interest before cutting back in late winter or early spring.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base to suppress weeds, but keep it away from the crown to prevent rot.
• Winter: A light mulch protects roots in colder months, though the plant is generally hardy.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ has naturally sturdy stems and typically does not require staking. In very exposed sites, light support may help protect against strong winds.
Final Tips
Eryngium bourgatii ‘Picos Amethyst’ is a low-maintenance, architectural perennial that thrives in sunny, well-drained sites. With its metallic-blue flowers and spiny bracts, it provides bold contrast in borders and gravel gardens while supporting pollinators. By planting in spring or autumn, ensuring free-draining soil, and keeping watering minimal, this plant will flourish and provide reliable colour and structure year after year.
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