Eryngium planum, 'White Glitter'

Germination

Sow under glass. Sow into moist well-drained seed compost, cover with a thin layer of soil. Cold stratify. Place seed container inside a plastic bag and place in the fridge at 4°C for 2-3 weeks. Remove from fridge and place in a cold frame or shady part of the garden. Keep covered with plastic or glass. Germination is irregular 5-90 days. As each seed germinates in turn transplant to its own 8cm pot. Plant out to final position as soon as possible. Seed may enter dormancy and not emerge until the following spring.

Growing

Prefers full sun in a light well-drained soil. Will tolerate very light shade. Plant into final position while the plant is young. The roots are often several feet long and do not like to be disturbed.

Cultivation

Flower stems may be cut back after flowering but the seedheads are attractive and could be left over winter. Cut flowers before fully open if you wish to dry them. Divide in early spring or autumn, be gentle, the plant does not like root disturbance. Protect from winter wetness.