Wildflowers
Echium vulgare -
Viper's-bugloss
Rosettes of bristly foliage at the base, the flowers emerge on tall leafy stems through summer. The bell-shaped flowers are loved by pollinators. A good choice for wildlife-friendly gardens. Can be used in mixed borders as well as in wild areas or meadows.
- Plant type
- Biennial
- Position
- Full Sun
- Height
- 90cm
- Spread
- 45cm
Growing calendar
Sowing & growing
Direct sow outside in March-May or Aug-Sep into well-drained, prepared soil, raked to a fine tilth, preferably in a sunny location. Sow finely in drills 30cm apart. Seed should be lightly covered with 5-6mm of soil or just raked into the surface. Keep watered until seedlings have established. When large enough to handle, thin out to 50cm spacing between plants.
Aftercare
Deadheading will encourage more flowers. Leave some spent flowers on the plant if you would like it to self-seed. Otherwise pull out plant at the end of season and compost.
Gallery
Ref. SEE003