I haven't had success with these yet. But if I ever get where I can try them again I will. I've gathered the following information so far but I could definitely use any hints tips or corrections you have as far as dealing with these plants.

Scientific Name of Plant: Eryngium alpinum
Common Name of Plant: "Alpine Sea Holly"
Indoor/Outdoor Plant: Outdoor
Days to Germination: around 89 days
USDA Growing Zone: 5 to 9
Conditions for sprouting: Direct sow only. Place seeds on top of the soil and press lightly so they do not move when watering, some types need light to germinate. Needs a soil temperature of 68F or cooler. Chilling seeds may help with the germination but is not considered necessary.
Mature Plant Care:
Lighting requirements: Full Sun
Fertilizer requirements: Average
Watering requirements: Can take drought conditions
Soil requirements: Light Sandy Soil pH:
Dead Heading: Only if not harvesting seeds
Pinching flower spikes: No
Plant spacing: 18 inches
Pruning times and amounts:
Conditions for Blooming:
Plant Life Cycle: Perennial
Propogation: Propagate by division, seed or root cuttings all done in the spring. Division will be difficult because of a taproot.
Height of Plant: 24 to 30 inches
Color of Leaves: Green
Color of Flowers: Blue
Special requirements (i.e. dormancy): Do not start indoors, they do not like to be transplanted. The can be topped after blooming to develop side blooms.
Notes: Can Winter sow

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I have the same feelings about chinese lanterns and money plants so I know how you feel.

The germination instructions change quite a bit depending on the type of sea holly you are growing so make sure you get the botanical name for your type and then follow the directions very carefully. Pay particular attention to the "light sandy soil" I don't think these will grow if you try to start them in starting potting soil. Or regular potting soil either.

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I'll be watching.

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