Giant Echium, Tree Echium
echium pininana
Also known as: ["Tower of Nectar","Tree Echium"]
Overview
A striking biennial or short-lived perennial with a tall, spire-like inflorescence of blue flowers, native to the Canary Islands.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Echium |
| Botanical Name: | Echium pininana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C, frost-sensitive"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly sandy or loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to bright indirect light; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, especially during active growth; reduce direct sun in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon heat; for indoor plants, place near south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until excess drains, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus/succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost; thrives in mild coastal climates.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in moist medium, keep humid, water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light, and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months; plant can be transplanted after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic bags or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or weak growth; shape the plant as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems; focus on post-flowering or early spring.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy or after flowering, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to support rapid growth and prevent root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, inspect roots, prune if needed, water lightly, acclimate slowly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth (spring/summer) when top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or necrosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting in temperature fluctuations.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells; provide a frost cloth if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute properly, apply during growing season, avoid over-fertilization, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Echium pininana. Even small amounts can cause adverse effects, particularly in cats with pre-existing liver conditions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Echium pininana can cause liver toxicity in dogs if consumed in significant amounts. While acute poisoning is rare, chronic exposure may lead to serious health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEchium pininana contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if ingested in large quantities over time. The plant's effects are generally mild but can be more pronounced in sensitive individuals or with prolonged exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Echium pininana grow?
A: It can reach up to 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) in height when in flower.
Q: Is Echium pininana suitable for cold climates?
A: It prefers mild climates and may not survive harsh winters without protection.
Q: Does Echium pininana require staking?
A: Due to its height, it may benefit from staking to prevent toppling, especially in windy conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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