Eryngium alpinum is a hemicryptophyte, its overwintering buds are situated just below the soil surface and the floral axis more or less erect with a few leaves.

[2] This plant is native to Austria, Liechtenstein, Croatia, France, Switzerland, Italy, and Slovenia.

[1][3] It grows in subalpine scrub, rocky areas and wet pastures, preferably in limestone, at an altitude of 1,500–2,000 metres (4,900–6,600 ft) above sea level.

[2] Eryngium alpinum is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its blue and purple flowerheads.

[4] Wild populations of the species are in decline due to overcollection for ornamental use and habitat degradation from recreational activity and grazing.