How to Grow Pride of Madeira
Pride of Madeira
Echium candicans
shrubPride of Madeira is a vigorous, evergreen shrub native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, known for its stunning spikes of blue-purple flowers that bloom prolifically in spring and early summer. This Mediterranean shrub can grow 8-12 feet tall and wide, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens and drought-tolerant landscapes. The fuzzy, gray-green foliage provides year-round interest even when not in bloom.
When should you plant Pride of Madeira in your zone?
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Example Pride of Madeira timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pride of Madeira
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Pride of Madeira
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9-11; tolerates zone 8b with protection
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Get my Pride of Madeira timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plant with fuzzy gray-green leaves establishing root system
Water regularly but allow soil to dry between waterings. Protect from hard freezes. Stake if windy. Avoid overwatering.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsRapid development of stems and foliage; plant becomes fuller and bushier
Prune lightly to encourage branching and bushier form. Reduce watering as plant matures. Apply gravel mulch to keep roots cool and dry.
Pre-Flowering
2-4 weeksPlant reaches flowering size with abundant gray-green foliage and visible flower buds forming
Reduce nitrogen-heavy fertilizers; apply phosphorus-rich fertilizer if needed. Ensure good drainage as plant prepares to expend energy on flowers.
Flowering
6-10 weeksSpectacular display of dense spikes with tubular blue-purple flowers (occasionally pink or white varieties)
Minimal deadheading needed; plant flowers prolifically over weeks. Continue minimal watering. Do not fertilize during peak bloom to avoid extending vegetative growth.
Post-Flowering & Dormancy
4-6 monthsFlowers fade; plant may flower again if conditions remain favorable; minimal growth in winter
After main bloom ends, prune back by 1/3 to encourage branching and next season's flowers. Greatly reduce watering in winter dormancy. Protect from hard freezes.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Rare in established plants; spray with water or neem oil if infested. Ensure adequate air circulation.
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Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves. Improve air circulation.
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Ensure excellent drainage. Allow soil to dry between waterings. Remove affected portions if caught early.
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Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Remove affected leaves. Use fungicide if severe.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe tubular flowers are edible and mildly sweet, suitable for garnishing salads, desserts, and beverages. The flowers attract pollinators and add visual interest to culinary presentations. [source]
Pollinator Magnet
WildlifePride of Madeira is beloved by hummingbirds, bees, and other pollinators. The abundant nectar-rich flowers provide crucial food source during spring and early summer blooms. [source]
Cut Flowers & Arrangements
HouseholdThe striking blue-purple flower spikes are excellent for fresh or dried flower arrangements, adding dramatic height and color to bouquets and floral displays. [source]
Dried Flowers
CraftFlower spikes dry well and retain their color for months, making them suitable for dried arrangements, crafts, and long-lasting botanical displays. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalEchium species have been used in traditional medicine for respiratory health and general wellness, though modern clinical evidence is limited. Always consult healthcare providers before use. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pride of Madeira is grown ornamentally for flowers rather than harvested. Cut flower spikes for arrangements when blooms are mostly open but some buds remain closed; they'll last 1-2 weeks in water. Deadheading spent flowers is optional but pruning back by 1/3 after main bloom encourages bushier growth and potentially a second flush of flowers.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pride of Madeira is native to the Canary Islands and Madeira, off the coasts of Africa and Portugal, making it perfectly adapted to Mediterranean and coastal climates with minimal water.
- 🌱 The plant's fuzzy, gray-green leaves are covered in tiny hairs that reflect sunlight, helping the plant conserve water in hot, dry conditions—a clever adaptation called pubescence.
- 🌱 In optimal conditions, a mature Pride of Madeira can produce hundreds of tubular flowers in a single season, creating a dramatic 'pride' display that can be seen from considerable distances.
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