Echium wildpretii

Common Names: tower of jewels

Family: Boraginaceae

Origin: Mediterranean

Type: Evergreen shrub

Size: 6-10 ft. high in bloom.

Flowers: Striking tower of profuse rose red flowers in second year, spring; leaves are long and narrow.

Uses: Accent (Short-lived; blooms second year, then dies with abundant seeds.)

Wildlife: Bees.

Soil: Well-drained.

Water: Little to moderate.

Sun: Full sun.

Pruning: (None found.)

Pests & Diseases: (None found.)

Notes: Only leaves first year. Blooms second year in spectacular show, then blooms fade and plant dies with an abundance of seeds, some of which will sprout. From Canary Islands. Hardy to 25° F.