Echium plantagineum
TAXONOMY
FamilyBoraginaceae
GenusEchium
Zone8
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Echium plantagineum, commonly known as Paterson's curse or Salvation Jane, is a flowering plant in the family Boraginaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but has become invasive in other parts of the world, including Australia. The plant is known for its striking purple-blue flowers and can grow up to 1 meter tall.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Paterson's Curse
Echium alonsoi
Echium bonariense
Echium creticum subsp. plantagineum
Echium diffusum
Echium longistamineum
Echium lycopsis
Echium maritimum
Echium murale
Echium orientale
Echium plantagineum var. alba
Echium plantagineum var. monodasystemon
Echium plantaginifolium
Echium plantaginoides
Echium pseudoviolaceum
Echium sennenii
Echium violaceum
Echium violaceum var. medium
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Echium plantagineum thrives in full sun and prefers moderate temperatures. It requires well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. The plant can tolerate a range of humidity levels but prefers moderate humidity.Soil
Echium plantagineum prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but thrives best in moderately fertile soil. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth. Fertilize sparingly, as the plant does not require high nutrient levels.Repotting
If growing in a container, repot Echium plantagineum when it outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil. Repotting is best done in the early spring.Propagation
Echium plantagineum can be propagated by seeds. Sow seeds in well-draining soil in a sunny location. The best time to propagate is in the spring or early summer.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Echium plantagineum. However, you can remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding if the plant is becoming invasive.Toxicity
Echium plantagineum is toxic to livestock, particularly horses, due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. It can cause liver damage if ingested in large quantities. It is also considered toxic to pets and humans if consumed.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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