Eryngium variifolium

Eryngium variifolium, Varied-Leaved or Moroccan Sea Holly, although abundant in cultivation is relatively rare in the wild and found only in four geographically separated locations in the High Atlas and Anti Atlas mountains in its native Morocco. It grows at altitudes of between 900 and 2500m above sea level in moist gullies and amongst the concourses of streams where it can find sufficient moisture to survive the harsh cold semi-arid mountainous regime. It is tolerant of drought and like most Eryngiums can go for long periods of time without water.

The low flat foliage has subtle variations in shape and form and are marbled with an attractive white venation. The flowers in summer are blue with silvery spiky thistle-like bracts.

Eryngium variifolium is hardy in most places in the UK, taking temperatures down to about -10C and benefiting from a thick mulch when the mercury dips lower.

Like most forms of Sea Holly, Eryngium variifolium has both interesting foliage and an unusual flower. The foliage works well in combination with other more obviously exotic plants. A stalwart of perennial gardens, experimental exotic gardeners will find Eryngium variifolium is a versatile plant that can be used far more imaginatively and makes a very easy addition to many drought-tolerant and semi-arid planting schemes.