Eryngium variifolium, popularly called Moroccan Sea Holly, is a remarkable perennial that, with its vividly variegated leaves and metallic blue flower heads, adds a unique architectural feature to landscapes. The mid-to-late-summer thistle-like blossoms are set against a beautiful backdrop of marbling white and green foliage. This plant, which reaches a height of roughly 45 cm, looks great in borders, rock gardens, or as a distinctive focal point in a xeriscape garden.
Once established, this hardy plant is especially easy to maintain because it tolerates poor soil conditions and drought well, grows best in full sun, and appreciates well-drained soil. Eryngium variifolium is a wonderful addition to any gravel garden or Mediterranean-themed landscape when combined with other drought-tolerant plants, such as grasses or sedums.
