Echium vulgare |
Native Region: Europe
Zone Range: 06-09
Preferred Climate: Temperate to hot continental
Harvest Date: Monday 18 September, 2006
Seed count: 40-50
Description:
Averaging 1 to 1.5m(3-5ft) in height, this biennial will produce a succession of bright blue flowers 1-2cm(1/2 to 1in) in diameter on tall spires from late spring through to midsummer in its second year. Leaves are narrow lanceolate and can grow to 30cm (1ft) in length at the base of the stem, but become considerably smaller further up the stalk. All parts of the plant are stiffly hairy.
Notes:
In temperate and smaller gardens, this is a good substitute for the larger more tender members of this genus. A favourite of bees, this plant is well suited to dry gardens and will add clouds of blue to meadow plantings. This seed was collected from unusually tall plants that exceeded 2m(6.5ft) in height.
Cultivation:
Sow seed where it is to grow in the late summer or fall for blooms the next year, or sow in spring for flowers the following year. Seed should be covered lightly with sand, gravel, or pine straw to protect from birds. Grow in moderately-fertile, well-drained soil in full sun. For maximum freshness, please keep seed refrigerated in its original packaging until it is time to plant.
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