Echium Candicans

Description

Echium Candicans, also known as Pride of Madeira, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Island of Madeira, which is located in the Atlantic Ocean. This plant is an evergreen perennial, which means it will keep its leaves year-round. It can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for landscaping or as a garden accent.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Echium Candicans has a unique and stunning appearance. It has long, lance-shaped leaves that are silvery-green in color and covered in fine hairs. The plant produces tall, spiky stems that are covered in small, bell-shaped flowers that can range in color from light blue to purple. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and can attract bees and butterflies to your garden.

Care Guide

Echium Candicans is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:

• Water: Echium Candicans prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
• Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
• Soil: Echium Candicans prefers sandy soil with good drainage. If your soil is heavy, mix in some sand or perlite to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: This plant needs full sun to thrive. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.
• Hardiness Zones: Echium Candicans is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow it as an annual or in a container that can be brought indoors during the winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Echium Candicans is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant too often. Some common pests that can affect this plant include spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. If you notice any of these pests, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Echium Candicans is native to the Island of Madeira, which has a subtropical climate. It prefers dry, well-draining soils and full sun. This plant can be grown in a variety of settings, including gardens, borders, and containers.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Echium Candicans tolerate drought?
A: Yes, it is drought tolerant once established. However, it will perform better with regular watering.

Q: Can Echium Candicans grow in shade?
A: No, it needs full sun to thrive.

Q: How often should I fertilize Echium Candicans?
A: Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.

Q: Can Echium Candicans be grown in a container?
A: Yes, it can be grown in a container. Just make sure the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.

Related Plants

• Echium Fastuosum
• Echium Pininana
• Echium Vulgare
• Echium Wildpretii

References

• “Echium Candicans.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/echcand.htm.
• “Echium Candicans.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2667/Echium-candicans/Details.
• “Pride of Madeira.” San Francisco Botanical Garden, www.sfbotanicalgarden.org/garden/bloom_11_05.shtml.