Echium candicans (Pride of Madeira)

Few shrubs produce such magnificent conical flower spikes! Pride of Madeira (Echium candicans or Echium fastuosum) is a fascinating biennial mounding shrub that grows up to 5-6 feet (150-180 cm) and spreads 6-10 feet (180-300 cm), displaying fabulously eye-catching, cone-shaped blue clusters from late spring through summer, atop sculptural and attractive rosettes of silvery-green, hairy leaves.

• Mostly pest or disease-free and requiring low maintenance, Pride of Madeira is evergreen, drought-tolerant, deer and salty winds-resistant. It also attracts scores of birds, bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
• Performs best in full sun, in poor and dry soils, and with just a little water. An excellent choice for the water-wise gardener for whom severe frost is a non-issue.
• Fast-growing, it should be cut back hard after flowering for a neat appearance and to promote new growth. Short-lived, it reseeds freely.
• It is a great candidate as a foundation shrub in seaside gardens, on hillsides and slopes. Its quick rate of growth makes this plant useful for plugging gaps in the garden. Paired with other bold-colored plants like Bougainvillea, Salvia mycrophilla or even golden English Roses such as Rose Graham Thomas create stunning scenes.
• Severe discomfort may result if any part of the plant is ingested. Foliage may cause skin irritation.