Pride of Madeira
Echium fastuosum
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
72 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Madeira
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Echium candicans, commonly known as Pride of Madeira, is a large, fast-growing biennial or short-lived evergreen subshrub. It forms a mounding shape with gray-green, hairy leaves and produces spectacular, large, conical flower spikes of dense, bluish-purple flowers in spring. Notable for its dramatic, 20-inch long conical flower spikes that cover the plant in spring, attracting a wide range of pollinators. It is highly tolerant of drought and coastal conditions.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
- Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer.
- Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Use well-draining soil and full sun for best growth and vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Ensure full sun exposure for at least 6 hours daily 🌞
- Water moderately, avoiding waterlogging 💧
- Apply organic compost in spring for healthy growth
- Prune after flowering to promote bushiness
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don't prune in late fall or winter
- Refrain from using heavy, clay-based soil without amendments
- Avoid placing in full shade
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pride of Madeira questions
What zones can Pride of Madeira grow in?
Pride of Madeira is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Pride of Madeira deer resistant?
Yes — Pride of Madeira is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Pride of Madeira bloom?
Pride of Madeira typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pride of Madeira need full sun?
Pride of Madeira does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Pride of Madeira drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Pride of Madeira handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Pride of Madeira with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
