Tajinaste rojo, Tower of jewels
echium wildpretii
Also known as: ["Red Tajinaste","Tower of Jewels"]
Overview
A striking biennial plant native to the Canary Islands, known for its tall, conical inflorescence covered in red flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Echium |
| Botanical Name: | Echium wildpretii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, raised bed, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil with some organic matter; cactus mix or succulent soil is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or when offsets are to be removed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight. Adjust in extreme heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in peak summer; avoid drafty windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, gritty soil with low organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F/10–24°C); thrives in cooler climates; sensitive to extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Seeds or basal offsets; seeds are the primary method as the plant is monocarpic (dies after flowering).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Transplant offsets when they have several leaves.
- Provide support as they grow tall.
Best Time: Spring, after flowering or when offsets appear; seeds should be sown in late winter/early spring.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (60–70%) for offsets; direct sunlight for seedlings.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix; for offsets, use a mix of perlite and peat.
Hormone
Not necessary for seeds; rooting hormone can help with offsets but is optional.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks; offsets root in 4–6 weeks; plants take 2–3 years to mature and flower.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, well-draining mix, misting bottle, labels.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; protect seedlings from strong winds; stake tall offsets early.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts; remove only dead or damaged parts; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage; may need to cut back after flowering if offsets are to be propagated.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins; for offsets, repot when they are well-established.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger for offsets; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently separate offsets; use fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot only if offsets are to be separated or if the plant is root-bound; Echium wildpretii is monocarpic and typically not repotted once mature.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on rainfall and humidity.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or root rot in cold or damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or death if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures; prefers frost-free conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging; move potted plants indoors in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Echium wildpretii. Even small amounts can be harmful over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Echium wildpretii can lead to liver toxicity in dogs if consumed. Chronic exposure may result in severe health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEchium wildpretii contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage if ingested in significant quantities. The toxic effects are cumulative and may not manifest immediately.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Echium wildpretii a perennial or biennial plant?
A: It is a biennial plant, meaning it typically completes its life cycle over two years.
Q: Does Echium wildpretii require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Q: Can Echium wildpretii be grown in containers?
A: While possible, it is best suited for open ground due to its height and root system.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
