Echium fastuosum

Germination

Sow indoors from late May-July. Sow 3mm deep into moist well-drained seed compost. Ideal temp. 13-16°C. Germination takes 21-60 days. When large enough to handle transplant seedlings to 8cm pots and overwinter in a cool greenhouse, conservatory or well lit windowsill with temp. 5-7°C. Plant out the following spring 120cm spacing.

Growing

Prefers a well-drained always moist, soil in full sun. Needs to survive 2 winters before it will flower. Can also be grown in a 30cm pot in a cool greenhouse.

Cultivation

Quite cold hardy, but protect base of the plant over winter and wrap in horticultural fleece, or bring plant inside if potted. Keep dry over winter if possible to prevent rotting. Remove flower spikes after flowering as this will extend the lifespan of the plant. Will self-seed.