Echium hierrense
Care, watering, light and tips for Echium hierrense on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Boraginaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Echium hierrense
Echium hierrense, also known as the Hierro bugloss, is a perennial shrub endemic to the island of El Hierro, Canary Islands, renowned for its spectacular spiky inflorescences that can reach up to 2 meters in height. Its flowers, which range from deep blue to violet, attract pollinators and rise majestically above greyish-green foliage. It is an ideal plant for xeriscapes, rock gardens, or as a focal point in coastal landscapes, adding an exotic and structural touch.
Native range
Canary Islands, specifically the island of El Hierro.
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal development and abundant flowering, tolerating direct exposure well. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is very sensitive to excess moisture and waterlogging; reduce watering drastically in winter. It prefers well-drained soils, preferably sandy or volcanic, with low organic content. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which can lead to root rot and plant death.
How to save a dying Echium hierrense
- Warning signs
- Wilted or yellowing leaves, soft or rotten stem, lack of flowering.
- First aid
- Move to a cooler, well-ventilated spot, reduce watering if soil is damp. Check drainage.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (especially in winter) and lack of direct sun. Does not tolerate waterlogging.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if the stem is not completely rotted. Act quickly with watering and location adjustments.