Kew : Eryngium giganteum Miss Wilmott's Ghost

Hardy Herbaceous Perennial

• Flowers in : Summer
• Germination : Experience Useful
• Aftercare : Easy
• Height : 40 inches

Description

A highly ornate border plant with heart-shaped basal foliage from which rise stems of many decorative steel-blue cones surrounded by a collar of prickly, scalloped leaves. During the summer the foliage transforms from mid green to silvery-grey. Wonderful for dried arrangements, especially at Christmas. Plants can be short lived but often self seed before dying. Height: 90-100cm (36-40in).

Sowing Instructions

Sow in trays, pots, etc of good seed compost in a propagator or warm place to maintain an optimum temperature of 65-70F (18-20C). Surface sow and just cover with vermiculite. Do not exclude light. Sowing Time: February to July. Germination can be slow. After sowing, seal container in a polythene bag and leave at 60-65F (15-18C) for 2 weeks, then place in a refrigerator (not freezer) for 3-6 weeks. After this return to the recommended germination temperature. If germination does not occur in 6-10 weeks return to the fridge for a further 3-6 weeks. Examine regularly whilst in the fridge and remove immediately the seeds show signs of germinating.

Growing Instructions

Transplant seedlings when large enough to handle into 7.5cm (3in) pots. Grow on in a cold frame and plant out the following spring 30cm (12in) apart in full sun.