About
This evergreen shrub to about 90cm with hairless, blue-green leaves. Large, open sprays of brilliant blue, bell-shaped flowers are produced in late spring and early summer.
About the genus
Echium can be annuals, biennials, evergreen perennials or shrubs, with simple, coarsely hairy leaves and funnel-shaped flowers borne in panicles or dense spikes in summer
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toLa Palma
ToxicitySkin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in very well-drained soil in full sun. May overwinter in mild areas, or take under glass in winter or grow as an annual
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs or glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite under glass
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free