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Description
Echium Vulgare, commonly known as viper’s bugloss, is a biennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia, but has been introduced in North America and other parts of the world. The plant reaches a height of 60-100 cm and bears showy blue to purple flowers that bloom from June to August. The plant is known for its rough and bristly leaves and stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Echium |
Appearance
Echium Vulgare has rough and bristly leaves and stems that can cause skin irritation. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 25 cm long. The flowers are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence and are tubular in shape. They are typically blue to purple in color, but can also be pink or white. The plant can grow up to 100 cm tall and 60 cm wide.
Care Guide
Echium Vulgare requires well-draining soil and full sun to thrive. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought, but performs best with regular watering and fertilization. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3-8. In areas with harsh winters, it is recommended to mulch the plant in the fall to protect the roots from freezing. Echium Vulgare can reseed itself, so it is important to deadhead the flowers to prevent self-seeding.
Common Pests & Diseases
Echium Vulgare is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can prevent these pests from causing damage to the plant.
Habitat
Echium Vulgare is commonly found in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers dry and sandy soils and can tolerate salt spray, making it a popular choice for coastal gardens. The plant is also known to attract bees and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Echium Vulgare poisonous?
A: No, Echium Vulgare is not poisonous.
Q: How often should I water Echium Vulgare?
A: Echium Vulgare should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Q: Can Echium Vulgare be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Echium Vulgare can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Echium Vulgare attract any pests?
A: Echium Vulgare can attract spider mites, aphids, and leaf spot, but is relatively pest resistant.
Related Plants
- Echium Wildpretii
- Echium Candicans
- Echium Pininana
- Echium Plantagineum
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/vipers-bugloss/growing-vipers-bugloss.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16194/Echium-vulgare/Details
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/echvul/all.html
- https://www.nps.gov/plants/pubs/chesapeake/plant/1470.htm
