Exotic blue-purple blooms with red-purple bracts and blue-grey foliage on branched stems in late summer. Height 60cm. Spread 40cm. Flowers July to September. Full sun, well drained soil. Makes a terrific cut flower.
Eryngium leavenworthii ‘Purple Sheen’ is a striking perennial known for its blue-purple blooms, red-purple bracts, and glaucous foliage. Its bold colouring and structural form make it a standout feature in sunny borders, gravel gardens, wildlife planting schemes, and cutting gardens. This guide will help you achieve the best performance from Eryngium leavenworthii ‘Purple Sheen’ throughout the growing season.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Plant Eryngium leavenworthii ‘Purple Sheen’ in spring as the soil begins to warm, allowing the root system to establish before the flowering period. Alternatively, early autumn planting is also suitable, giving the plant time to settle ahead of its next growth cycle.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Choose a position that receives full sun to ensure strong colouring and sturdy flower stems. Eryngium performs best when exposed to bright, open conditions.
Soil: Provide well-drained soil, as excess moisture can hinder growth. Adding grit or organic matter helps create the ideal free-draining conditions for Eryngium leavenworthii ‘Purple Sheen’.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth. This gives your Eryngium ample room for the roots to spread.
Soil Preparation
Mix in grit or compost to improve drainage and soil structure.
Planting
Position the plant so the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm into place.
Watering After Planting
Water thoroughly to settle the soil, but avoid overwatering. Once established, Eryngium leavenworthii ‘Purple Sheen’ prefers relatively dry conditions.
Watering Requirements
Eryngium is naturally tolerant of dry periods once settled. Water only during prolonged dry spells, allowing the soil to dry between sessions. During winter dormancy, keep watering minimal and only if the soil becomes very dry.
Feeding
Apply a light, balanced fertiliser in spring to support fresh growth. A midsummer feed can help maintain vigour and ensure Eryngium leavenworthii ‘Purple Sheen’ continues to flower well through the season.
Pruning
Remove spent flowers to keep the plant looking tidy, or leave the seedheads for decorative interest. At the end of the flowering season, cut back the stems to prepare your Eryngium for its next growth cycle.
Mulching
Apply a light mulch in spring to suppress weeds and stabilise soil moisture, but keep mulch away from the crown to prevent moisture buildup. In winter, a thin layer of mulch helps protect the roots of Eryngium leavenworthii ‘Purple Sheen’ without creating soggy conditions.
Final Tips
Eryngium thrives in sunny, well-drained garden spaces and offers exceptional colour, structure, and pollinator appeal from midsummer to early autumn. With minimal maintenance and strong ornamental value, it is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a vibrant, long-flowering perennial.
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