Echium vulgare
viper's bugloss
From amongst the rosettes of slender, bristly foliage, upright leafy stems emerge in early summer bearing spikes of violet blue or purple, bell-shaped flowers. When in full bloom, Echium vulgare not only look impressive, but they will also act as a magnet to many pollinating insects. This makes them ideal candidates for a wildlife-friendly garden, but they also make fine additions to the mixed border.
How to care for Echium vulgare:
Grow in full sun and well-drained soil, as this hardy biennial thrives in dry, poor ground where other plants may struggle. Once established, it becomes drought-tolerant and needs reduced supplementary watering.
Avoid heavy feeding, as rich soil can lead to floppy growth. Plants generally die after flowering but will self-seed freely, ensuring future displays if some seed is left to fall. Deadheading can extend the flowering season, and cut back spent stems in late summer to keep the area tidy.
The rough foliage can irritate skin, so gloves are recommended when handling.
Avoid heavy feeding, as rich soil can lead to floppy growth. Plants generally die after flowering but will self-seed freely, ensuring future displays if some seed is left to fall. Deadheading can extend the flowering season, and cut back spent stems in late summer to keep the area tidy.
The rough foliage can irritate skin, so gloves are recommended when handling.
Sowing instructions:
Early spring sowings may flower later in their first year. For early summer colour they should be sown in late summer or autumn the previous year. Scatter the seed thinly into a sunny, well-prepared seedbed and cover lightly. Water regularly until they are established, thinning them out to 35cm (14in) as they grow on.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.9m
Eventual spread:
0.3m
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)
-
Humans: Skin irritant
approx 35 seeds
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