Eryngium pandanifolium
Family: Apiaceae or Umbelliferae
What it is like
Eryngium pandanifolium is a PERENNIAL growing to 2.5 m (8ft 2in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 2.5
Where it is found
Banks of ditches in Portugal.
S. America - Brazil to Argentina. Naturalized in S.W. Europe.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 0
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating: 1
A fibre is obtained from the leaves and is used for cordage.
Fibre: Used for making cloth, rope, paper etc.
How it is grown
Requires a well-drained soil and a sunny position. Prefers a light sandy soil but tolerates most soil types including lime and poor gravels. Plants can be grown in quite coarse grass, which can be cut annually in the autumn. Plants should be put in their final position whilst small since they resent root disturbance. A very ornamental plant, it is not very hardy outdoors in Britain but has survived temperatures down to -10°c when grown in a very well-drained soil and a sheltered position.
Propagating it: Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in early autumn on the surface of a well-drained compost in a cold frame. The seed can also be sown in spring. It usually germinates in 5 - 90 days at 20°c. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Division in early spring or autumn. Take care since the plant resents root disturbance. Root cuttings in autumn or winter.
Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist