Tower of jewels (Echium wildpretii)

Tower of jewels

Also known as: Pink echium

Endemic to the Canary Islands, the tower of jewels is a striking biennial plant that produces tall flower stalks in the second year of growth. Once the plant sets flowers, it dies. The botanical name Echium wildpretii comes from the name of the 19th-century Swiss botanist Hermann Josef Wildpret.

Scientific classification

Species

Tower of jewels (Echium wildpretii)

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Perennial, Biennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

91 cm to 1.8 m

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green, Silver, Gray

Leaf Color

Brown

Fruit Color

Red, Pink

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

Images of Tower of jewels

Quickly Identify Tower of jewels

Towering flower spike reaches 5-7 feet (1.5-2.1 meters) tall.

Basal rosette with silver-green narrow leaves sprawling to 2 feet (60 cm) wide.

Dense terminal spike with hundreds of rose-pink to red flowers, each 1-1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm) wide.

Prominent stamens in each flower create a visually striking display.

Distinct silvery-green leaves with soft, fuzzy texture and parallel vein pattern.

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Care Guide for Tower of jewels

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Tower of jewels thrives in arid conditions with strong drought tolerance and is irrigated weekly through infrequent, deep watering. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure, making it suitable for rock gardens and xeriscaping due to its impressive height and inflorescence.

Fertilize: For tower of jewels, fertilize biweekly with balanced nutrition during growth and switch to high phosphorus types pre-flowering to boost blooms. Apply sparingly to avoid root burn, and adjust frequency and quantity seasonally for optimal health. Follow product instructions for safe, effective application.

Pruning: Tower of jewels is a biennial with tall, vibrant flower spikes. Prune in early spring to late winter, removing dead foliage to promote new growth. After flowering, cut spent stalks to redirect energy into the rosette for enhanced vigor and appearance.

Propagation: Tower of jewels is a biennial propagated by seeds, requiring fertile, well-draining soil and full sun. Seeds can be sown directly or in trays, maintaining moisture for germination. Proper spacing is essential for mature growth, resulting in tall spikes with vibrant blooms.

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Images of Tower of jewels

Quickly Identify Tower of jewels

Care Guide for Tower of jewels

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Common Pests & Diseases