Viper’s Bugloss
(Echium strictum)
Viper’s Bugloss (Echium strictum)
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Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 | Uploader: Kenraiz | Publisher: Wikipedia Commons













Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements for Suffolk, Virginia
This Plant | Your Site | Plant Suitability for Your Location | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
• Precipitation | 6" - 27" | 48" | Aquatic | Aquatic |
• High Temp. | 70°F - 89°F | 88°F | Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. | Excellent |
• Low Temp. | 33°F - 59°F | 30°F | Your winter temperatures may be too cold for this plant | Too cold |
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.
Summary
Echium strictum, commonly known as Viper’s Bugloss or Tower of Jewels, is a semi-deciduous shrub native to rocky, dry areas, and coastal zones of the Canary Islands. It typically grows to a height of 2-6 feet (0.6-1.8 meters) and a width of 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters). This plant is characterized by its erect, branched stems and narrow, hairy leaves. It produces dense spikes of funnel-shaped, vibrant purple flowers in late spring to early summer, which are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Echium strictum is valued for its drought tolerance and striking floral display, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and coastal landscapes. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or loamy. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may need protection from strong winds due to its tall flower spikes. In regions with suitable climates, it can naturalize and provide a continuous display of color. However, it is important to be aware that Echium species can be invasive in some areas, so gardeners should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Echium strictum is valued for its drought tolerance and striking floral display, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and coastal landscapes. It thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil, preferably sandy or loamy. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may need protection from strong winds due to its tall flower spikes. In regions with suitable climates, it can naturalize and provide a continuous display of color. However, it is important to be aware that Echium species can be invasive in some areas, so gardeners should check local guidelines before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Shrub
- Height: 2-6 feet
- Width: 1-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Purple
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention: Semi-Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Rocky, dry areas, and coastal zones of the Canary Islands
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: Echium strictum, Echium lineatum, Echium strictum var. lineolatum, Echium lineolatum, Echium foliosum, Echium ambiguum, Echium lineatum var. gomerae
GBIF Accepted Name: Echium strictum L.fil.