Pride of Madiera is the Common name given to the Echium fatuosum, and as the name suggests, it is native to the Island of Madiera. This is a large perennial plant with rough , raspy textured leaves, and large blue flowers spikes in Spring to early Summer.
There are a number of varieties of Echium, and they are all spectacular when in flower, adding a distinct shape in a garden which contrasts to other plants. The plants grow to around 2.5 metres tall, and around 2 metres wide, and are drought tolerant once established. The best climate for these is temperate to warm, preferably with low humidity, although Sydney can be quite humid in Summer, and these plants still look good. Plant them in a position with full sun and well drained soil. Prune off old flower heads and leggy stems to keep the plant compact. They grow fast, so they will look good again in no time.
I took these photos in gardens close to Sydney Harbour.
