Description
Echium aspirremum (Echium hispidissimum) | Speckled Echium
Speckled Echium, also called Echium Asperimma, Brushtail and Acne Leaf, is an extremely rare showy biannual that’s grows the first year as a green, hairy leaf rosette that, on year two, grows into a short and broad pyramidal shaped multi branching plant with beautiful peach colored flowers and speckled branches.
It is native rocky soils of the eastern Mediterranean region and would do well in any rich, very well drained soil in full sun. In the beginning of the second year of growth, plant directly in the ground after the last freezing night in late winter/early spring. This can be true for many Echium species. Makes an excellent specimen for the rock garden.
Habitats include gravelly or sandy areas along railroads, and roadsides, old abandoned fields, pastures, and waste areas. Open barren areas with a history of disturbance are preferred.
Best to start seeds indoor with heat, humidity, and light, although they will germinate outdoors when temperatures are warm enough.
Beautiful to look at, but not to touch because the leaves and stalks are armed with sharp hairs like most Echium species.
Type: Biennial
Sun exposure: Full sun
Mature height: 14-24 inches
Mature width- 8-14 inches
Hardiness zones: 9-11
