Eryngium

Eryngium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae (the carrot family). Commonly known as sea hollies or eryngoes, the genus contains approximately 250 species. These plants are native to temperate and subtropical regions worldwide, with a particularly high concentration of species in South America.

Eryngium species are typically herbaceous perennials or biennials, characterized by their distinctive thistle-like appearance. Their stems are erect and branching, often tinged with blue or silver. The leaves are variable, ranging from simple and entire to deeply lobed or spiny. The inflorescence is a dense head or umbel surrounded by prominent bracts, which are often spiny or sharply pointed. The flowers are small and typically blue, white, or green.

Eryngium species are adapted to a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, grasslands, and rocky slopes. Some species are halophytes, tolerant of saline conditions. They are popular ornamentals in gardens due to their unique appearance and tolerance of dry conditions. Several species are also used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, although scientific evidence supporting these uses is often limited. Certain species, such as Eryngium campestre (field eryngo), are considered edible and have been used as a vegetable. Conservation concerns exist for some Eryngium species due to habitat loss and over-collection.