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There are around 40 known species in the genus Echium, native to Europe, the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean, Africa, and W. Asia. The foliage has bristly hairs that can irritate the skin upon contact. No part of the plant is edible.
Echium is a genus of rosette-forming annuals and evergreen biennials, perennials, and shrubs. They are cultivated for their flowers that form eye-catching spike or cone-shaped formations. Great for borders.
| Plant Types: | Perennial |
| Light: | Full Sun |
| Height: | 5 feet to 8 feet |
| Width: | 5 feet to 6 feet |
| Zones: | 10a to 11b |
| Bloom Color: | Blue |
| Leaf Color: | Green, Silvery |
| Special Features: | All or parts of this plant are poisonous, Not North American native |
| Shape: | Rounded |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food |
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Sow seeds of annuals species in spring; sow perennial and biennial species in summer. Root semi-ripe cuttings of shrubby perennials in midsummer.
Echium grows best with full sun, and thrives in areas with hot summers. Species are drought tolerant, but cannot withstand temperatures below 30ºF. Where hardy, grow Echium in an annual, mixed, or herbaceous border. They also make good container plants. Elsewhere, raise Echium indoors.
Flowers are borne from spring to summer. They attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Soil that is too rich will hinder flower formation.
Outdoors, Echium does well with poor, dry soils. For indoor plants, use a standard soil-based potting mix. Water freely during the growing season; water sparingly in winter.
Plants should be cut back hard before winter.
Slugs are known to attack young growth. Other pests include whiteflies and spider mites.