Echium Seeds – Wildpretii Tower of Jewels

Echium Seeds – Wildpretii Tower of Jewels produce one of the most striking and architectural plants admired by gardeners worldwide. This biennial species forms a dramatic rosette of silvery-green leaves in its first year and, in the second year, grows an impressive flower spike reaching up to 8–10 feet tall, covered in dense clusters of crimson to pink blooms.

Native to the Canary Islands, Echium wildpretii thrives in sunny, well-drained locations and is highly drought-tolerant once established. Its towering flower spikes attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making it an exceptional choice for pollinator-friendly gardens and xeriscapes.

Features:

• Type: Biennial flowering plant

• Common Name (US): Tower of Jewels

• Scientific Name: Echium wildpretii

• Flower Color: Crimson to deep pink

• Growth Habit: Tall, upright spike with basal rosette

• Height: Up to 8–10 feet (2.4–3 meters)

• Soil Requirement: Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil

• Sunlight: Full sun

• Watering: Low; drought-tolerant once established

• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (second year of growth)

• Special Feature: Attracts pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds

Specifications:

• Planting Season: Early spring or fall

• Hardiness Zones (USDA): Zones 9–11 (can be grown as an annual in cooler zones)

• Sowing Method: Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost or direct sow in warm climates

• Germination Time: 14–21 days

• Germination Temperature: 65–75°F (18–24°C)

• Spacing Between Plants: 24–36 inches (60–90 cm)

• Mature Plant Height: 6–10 feet (1.8–3 meters)

• Best Growing Months:

  • Northern Zones (5–7): May to September

  • Mid Zones (8–9): April to October

  • Southern Zones (10–11): February to November

• Maintenance: Minimal; remove spent stalks after flowering to prevent reseeding

• Uses: Rock gardens, dry landscapes, pollinator gardens, and ornamental borders