Sand Viper's Bugloss
echium sabulicola
Also known as: ["Sand Viper's Bugloss"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant native to sandy coastal regions, known for its delicate blue flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Echium |
| Botanical Name: | Echium sabulicola |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, sunny border, or container in a warm, dry spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in extreme sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; stop in dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; trim leggy stems; remove spent flowers.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; shape plant to encourage bushiness.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up; increase pot diameter by 2–3 inches.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim roots if crowded; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in severe cold; ensure good drainage to prevent cold root damage.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogged soil.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEchium sabulicola is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicEchium sabulicola is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicEchium sabulicola is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Echium sabulicola toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Echium sabulicola?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Echium sabulicola attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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