The Pride of Madeira (Echium candicans or Echium fastuosum) is a striking shrub native to Madeira and the Canary Islands. It features tall, spiky clusters of blue or purple flowers above slender, grey-green foliage. This plant can reach impressive sizes, making it a focal point in landscapes, and its natural drought tolerance suits dry summer climates.
Essential Growing Requirements
Pride of Madeira requires full sun exposure, ideally receiving at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and reduced blooms.
Well-draining soil is paramount for Pride of Madeira. It tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but consistently wet conditions lead to root rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.5) is preferred. Incorporating perlite, coarse sand, or compost can improve drainage in denser soils.
Pride of Madeira thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11. It is well-suited to coastal environments, tolerating salty air and strong winds once established. While drought-tolerant and heat-resistant, it is sensitive to frost. Temperatures below 50°F can be damaging; protection like a frost blanket may be necessary if temperatures drop to 25-30°F or lower.
Routine Care Practices
Watering practices vary with establishment. Newly planted specimens require regular watering to ensure consistently moist, but not waterlogged, soil. Once established, the plant is remarkably drought-tolerant, often needing little supplemental water in coastal areas. In hotter inland regions or during prolonged dry periods, occasional deep watering (about once a week) can maintain vigor. Always allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing is generally not a high priority, as Pride of Madeira performs well in poor to moderately fertile soils. If needed, apply a balanced, low-phosphorus fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 NPK) once in spring or summer. Excessive fertilization can reduce flowering and cause yellowing leaves.
Pruning maintains the plant’s shape, promotes bushier growth, and encourages repeat blooming. Deadhead spent flower stalks for tidiness and to prevent excessive self-seeding. Structural pruning for size control or new growth can be performed in late fall or early spring before new growth emerges. Wear gloves when handling the plant, as its stiff hairs can cause skin irritation.
Addressing Common Challenges
Pride of Madeira is generally robust, but can encounter some issues. Pests like aphids, whiteflies, or spider mites may occur, especially on stressed plants. Dislodge many pests with a strong water spray, or use insecticidal soap for persistent issues. Slugs and snails can also be manually removed.
Diseases are infrequent, with root rot being the most prevalent concern, almost always linked to overwatering or poorly draining soil. Ensuring proper drainage and avoiding excessive moisture is the best preventative measure. Yellowing leaves can signal either overwatering or over-fertilization.
Other growth problems include leggy plants from insufficient sunlight, addressed by moving to a brighter location and pruning. A lack of flowering in young plants is often due to their biennial nature, as they typically bloom in their second year. In established plants, poor blooming can be attributed to inadequate light or excessive fertilizer. Frost damage, seen as wilting or browning leaves, necessitates trimming affected parts and providing shelter during cold snaps.
Propagation and Planting Tips
Pride of Madeira can be propagated by seed or cuttings. For seed propagation, sow seeds indoors in potting mix, about 1/8-inch deep, with a thin layer of sand. Maintain 60-70°F for germination, which typically occurs within two weeks. Once seedlings develop true leaves and after the last frost, harden off and transplant outdoors.
For cuttings, take approximately 3-inch softwood cuttings just below a leaf node. Trim lower leaves, dip the base in rooting hormone, and insert into a well-draining soilless potting mix. Cover the pot with clear plastic to maintain humidity; roots generally form within several weeks at around 70°F.
Plant Pride of Madeira in fall or spring in mild climates, allowing establishment before extreme temperatures. Select a site with full sun and ample space, as these shrubs grow 6-8 feet tall and 6-10 feet wide. Ensure good drainage in the planting hole and water initially to settle roots. Space plants 4-6 feet apart to prevent overcrowding and ensure good air circulation.