Miss Willmott's Ghost is a striking biennial sea holly that commands attention with its architectural presence and ethereal silvery-blue flowers. Growing 2 to 4 feet tall in zones 4 through 7, this thistle-like perennial unfolds heart-shaped green leaves in its first year, then sends up rigid stems crowned with cone-shaped flower heads in late spring through summer. The tiny flowers packed into 4-inch umbels create an almost ghostly shimmer that inspired its evocative common name. Low maintenance and drought tolerant once established, it thrives in full sun with moderate water and well-drained soil.
Full Sun
Moderate
4-7
48in H x 36in W
—
High
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The silvery-blue flower heads appear in branched clusters atop stiff stems, creating a distinctive architectural quality that persists well into late summer. Its taprooted system means it dislikes disturbance, so choosing the right location from the start rewards you with years of reliable blooms. Though it sprawls if coddled in overly rich soil or partial shade, this plant rewards lean conditions and full sun exposure with compact, sturdy growth. Taller specimens may need support, but the payoff is stunning late-season color in a flower garden that demands little once it settles in.
As an ornamental herb, Miss Willmott's Ghost is grown primarily for its remarkable flowers, which appear from June through August and are valued for fresh or dried arrangements. The showy blue-silver umbels add textural interest and cool tones to garden compositions.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Germinate seeds indoors at 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Start seeds in spring for transplanting after the last frost date. Handle seedlings gently, as this taprooted plant resents disturbance.
Transplant outdoors after the last frost date in your zone (zones 4 through 7). Space plants 12 to 36 inches apart to accommodate mature spread. Minimize root disturbance during transplanting; this species is best left undisturbed once established.
Direct sowing is possible, though the taprooted nature of this plant means seedlings will establish more successfully if left undisturbed in their original planting location.
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