Tower of Jewels Echium
Tower of Jewels Echium is truly one of the most stunning botanical treasures that we might attempt to grow. And by attempt to grow we mean this is really a Zone 9 plant, but the gorgeous tower of jewels flower spikes that shoot up, sometimes as high as 10 feet, in the spring of the second year tempt us to test our luck every year and get these babies to overwinter. As a biennial, they must be replanted after flowering, but are even worth growing as an annual as the stunning blue grey rosettes are show-stoppers in their own right. Plant in well drained soil and be careful with the water.
Latin Name: Echium wildpretii
Site and Soil: Full sun and well-drained soil.
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile
Hardiness: Hardy to brief dips into the teens
Bearing Age: Biennial, flowers in its second year.
Size at Maturity: 8-10ft. in height
Bloom Time: May-June
Ripening Time: Seeds ripen after flowering
Pests & Diseases: Not bothered by pests or diseases.
USDA Zone: 9