Eryngium variifolium is an evergreen, clump-forming perennial with dark green, scalloped foliage marked by contrasting white veins. Also called Moroccan Sea Holly, Eryngium variifolium has erect, silver blue, branched stems that carry thistle-like umbels of steel blue flowers set above spiny, silvery bracts. This uncommon plant deserves more use in containers, rock gardens and cutting gardens.

Eryngium variifolium prefers full sun to very light shade and medium to dry, well-drained soil. Sea Holly is drought tolerant and survives in coastal conditions.