Echium italicum
TAXONOMY
FamilyBoraginaceae
GenusEchium
Zone6
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Echium italicum, commonly known as Italian Viper's Bugloss, is a biennial plant in the Boraginaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is known for its tall spikes of white to pale blue flowers. The plant has a rosette of leaves in its first year and flowers in the second year. It typically goes dormant in the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Italian Bugloss
Echium altissimum
Echium balearicum
Echium collinum
Echium elongatum
Echium glomeratum
Echium italicum var. balearicum
Echium linearifolium
Echium luteum
Echium pyramidale
Echium pyramidatum
Echium pyrenaicum
Echium ramosum
Echium strictissimum
Isoplesion italicum
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Echium italicum prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It thrives in moderate temperatures and can tolerate dry conditions once established. Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It does not require high humidity and can tolerate average household humidity levels.Soil
This plant prefers well-drained loamy soil. It can tolerate poor soil conditions but performs best in moderately fertile soil. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Echium italicum does not require frequent fertilization. If desired, a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can support growth.Repotting
Repot Echium italicum when it outgrows its container, typically every 1-2 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repot in the spring before the growing season begins.Propagation
Propagate Echium italicum by seeds. Sow seeds in the spring or early summer. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep them moist until germination, which usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for Echium italicum. However, you can remove spent flower spikes to encourage more blooms and maintain the plant's appearance.Toxicity
Echium italicum is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is best to prevent ingestion by pets and children.Additional
Echium italicum is a great addition to wildflower gardens and can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. It is also drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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