Echium candicans
pride of Madeira
- 3.5 litre pot
- £24.99
- available to order from late spring
Delivery options
- Standard £5.95
- Position: full sun
- Soil: moderately fertile, well-drained soil
- Rate of growth: average
- Flowering period: May to June
- Hardiness: frost hardy (needs protection in winter)
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. It 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 it into a Mediterranean-style planting scheme. - Garden care: Cut down flower spikes in autumn, and protect the plant over winter with horticultural fleece.
- Humans: Skin irritant