Echium candicans (syn. Echium fastuosum J.Jacq.), commonly known as pride of Madeira, is a species of flowering plant in the family Boraginaceae, native to the island of Madeira. It is a large herbaceous Perennial subshrub, growing to 1.5–2.5 m (4 ft 11 in–8 ft 2 in).
In the first year after germination the plant produces a broad rosette of leaves. In the second and subsequent years more or less woody flowering stalks are produced clothed in rough leaves. The flower head is large and covered with blue flowers having red stamens. It is much visited by bees and butterflies for its nectar.
Photos: Celeste Mookherjee
Plant Info
Latin Name: Echium candicans
Family Name: Boraginaceae
Origin: Madeira, Canary Islands
Garden Location: Volunteer Garden
