Sea Hollies.

[shei111]

Hello today at the local market I bought a Eryngium alpinum its a perennial from the sea holly family, its about 1 foot tall which I believe will probaly grow to abot 2 or 3 foot high,the flower I would say will be out in about a weeks time,ive got it in a sunny position in with other perennials am I right in saying they do not like too much water? Also I believe they are insect and wildlife friendly plant.Can this flower be cut for dried flower display or can I leave it in the garden for the birds for winter feeding from the seeds , id rather leave it for the birds, also when do I cut it down ? any information would be much appreciated on this beautiful flower. thanks shei.

[aeshna5]

Eryngiums tend to need good drainage + these unusual umbellifers have architectural heads which are attractive to insects + can be good for drying for arrangements.