Pride of Madeira

echium candicans

Also known as: ["Madeiran bugloss","Tower of Jewels"]

Family: Boraginaceae Genus: Echium Category: Flowers

Overview

A robust, evergreen shrub native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, known for its tall spikes of blue-violet flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Boraginales
Family: Boraginaceae
Genus: Echium
Botanical Name: Echium candicans

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"7–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s height and width.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure bright light indoors if grown as a houseplant.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, every 14–21 days in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.

Temperature

Prefers mild temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); thrives in cool summers; sensitive to extreme heat and frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize sparingly to avoid root burn; stop in fall/winter; apply to moist soil.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; mature plant in 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or damaged growth.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune before flowering; remove dead growth; shape the plant.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth starts.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water to the roots, avoiding foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, stunted growth, or browning leaf edges in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; risk of frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).

Solution: Protect with frost cloth in winter; plant in a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Echium candicans may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Echium candicans can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, disrupting nutrient uptake and potentially leading to plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Echium candicans are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation if the infection spreads.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Echium candicans due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and eventual plant demise.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Echium candicans. Even small amounts can be harmful if ingested repeatedly.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting depression anorexia liver failure
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is observed.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

The pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Echium candicans can lead to liver toxicity in dogs if consumed in large amounts. Chronic exposure may result in severe health issues.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy loss of appetite jaundice
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Echium candicans contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if ingested in significant quantities over time. The effects are cumulative and may not be immediately apparent.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain liver damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Wear gloves when handling to prevent accidental consumption.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should Pride of Madeira be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in cooler months.

Q: Does Pride of Madeira attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Q: Is Pride of Madeira suitable for coastal gardens?

A: Yes, it is salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Boraginaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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