Echium candicans
pride of Madeira
In late spring and early summer, huge candles densely packed with small purple flowers rise above rosettes of lance-shaped, hairy, grey-green leaves. This semi-evergreen biennial hails from Madeira, so it will thrive in hot, sunny conditions.
Echium candicans is tolerant of drought once established, and can cope with coastal conditions - although it should be protected from strong winds. It’s a dramatic plant that can be used to add vertical interest at the back of a mixed or herbaceous border. Otherwise, incorporate pride of Madeira into a Mediterranean-style planting scheme.
Echium candicans is tolerant of drought once established, and can cope with coastal conditions - although it should be protected from strong winds. It’s a dramatic plant that can be used to add vertical interest at the back of a mixed or herbaceous border. Otherwise, incorporate pride of Madeira into a Mediterranean-style planting scheme.
How to care for Echium candicans:
Plant in a sunny, sheltered position with free-draining soil, as this shrubby Echium dislikes cold, wet conditions, particularly in winter. This semi-evergreen shrub benefits from a warm wall or coastal setting and needs space to develop its branching framework. Water regularly during its first growing season to help it establish, then reduce watering once settled, as it copes better with short dry spells than excess moisture.
In frost-prone areas, protect young plants with fleece during cold snaps and avoid heavy, water-retentive mulches around the base. In colder parts of the UK it may need winter protection every year, especially if temperatures drop regularly below zero.
After flowering, remove faded flower spikes to keep the plant tidy and maintain its shape. Lightly trim in spring if needed to encourage bushier growth, but avoid cutting hard into old wood, as regrowth can be slow.
In frost-prone areas, protect young plants with fleece during cold snaps and avoid heavy, water-retentive mulches around the base. In colder parts of the UK it may need winter protection every year, especially if temperatures drop regularly below zero.
After flowering, remove faded flower spikes to keep the plant tidy and maintain its shape. Lightly trim in spring if needed to encourage bushier growth, but avoid cutting hard into old wood, as regrowth can be slow.
Eventual height:
2m
Eventual spread:
2m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
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This perennial is semi-evergreen so it can lose some of its leaves in winter. In colder regions or more exposed gardens, it may lose them all, but then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
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Humans: Skin irritant
2 litre pot
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