Echium candicans

Common name:

Pride of Madeira

Genus:

Echium

Species:

E. candicans ~ E. candicans is an evergreen biennial, producing a low rosette of silvery-green, lance-shaped leaves and dense spikes of purple flowers in late spring.

Cultivation:

Sow seeds in-situ in spring or under glass. Echiums need to grow in full sun in free-draining soil. They may be left to self-seed after flowering if desired. Protect from strong winds and winter cold.

Suggested uses:

Beds and borders, Coastal, Cottage/Informal, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Wildflower

Soil types:

Chalky, Loamy, Sandy

Soil drainage:

Well-drained

Soil pH:

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Light:

Full Sun

Aspect:

South, West

Exposure:

Sheltered

Hardiness:

Tender in frost (H3)

Specific pest(s):

Glasshouse whitefly
, Slugs

Diseases:

Generally disease-free.

Propagation method(s):

Seed

Skill rating:

Beginner

Maintenance hours / year:

Echium candicans is:

Semi evergreen

Flower:

Blue in Summer

Foliage:

Green, Silvery-grey in Spring; Green, Silvery-grey in Summer

Habit:

Erect

Ultimate height (m):

Ultimate spread (m):

0.9

Time to maturity:

2 years

Severe discomfort may result if any part of the plant is ingested. Foliage may cause skin irritation.