Tower of Jewels

Echium wildpretii is one of the most dramatic plants one can grow in a UK garden, provided you have a mild microclimate or a large greenhouse. In its first year, it forms a spectacular, dense rosette of narrow, silver-grey, hairy leaves. In its second or third year, it sends up a colossal, unbranched flower spike that can reach 2-3 metres in height. This 'tower' is completely smothered in thousands of tiny, jewel-like, rose-red flowers. It is a stunning sight and a magnet for bees. In the UK, it is only hardy to about -5°C (H3), so it is best suited for the South West, coastal areas, or inner cities. It must have sharp drainage and a position in full sun. After its spectacular flowering, the plant dies, but it leaves behind a wealth of seeds. It is a must-have for the exotic or architectural garden, providing a vertical element that is truly unmatched in the plant world.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Very well-drained, poor soil.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Jun, Jul.