About
A vigorous cultivar, at 45cm it is rather shorter than the species, multi-branched, with short, crowded spikes of violet-blue flowers, magenta flushed when fading, and pink buds. Very attractive to pollinating insects.
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 typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Prairie planting, Wildlife gardens
ToxicitySkin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow outdoors in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required but flowering can be extended to four months if plants are deadheaded
PropagationPropagate by seed outdoors at 13-16°C (41-45°F), in late summer and overwinter as seedlings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs or glasshouse whitefly and glasshouse red spider mite under glass
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free