Tower of jewels Echium wildpretii

Water

The Tower of Jewels should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In general, watering once every two to three weeks is sufficient, with adjustments made for particularly hot or dry weather. When watering, aim to provide about one to two gallons of water per plant, ensuring it reaches the deeper roots without causing waterlogging. During the winter months, reduce watering further to prevent root rot, as the plant has lower water requirements in cooler temperatures.

Light

Tower of Jewels thrives in full sun where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. The best spot for this plant is an unobstructed south-facing location where it’s exposed to ample sunlight throughout the day, as this mimics its natural habitat and promotes vigorous growth and flowering.

Temperature

Tower of Jewels is adapted to a moderate climate and performs best in temperatures between 50°F and 80°F. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F for short periods and highs up to around 100°F. The plant is not frost-tolerant, so it should be protected or moved indoors if temperatures are expected to drop below the minimum range.

Pruning

Tower of Jewels requires minimal pruning, mainly to remove spent flower spikes and encourage further flowering. Prune after the main flowering spike has finished, typically in late summer or fall. Pruning is also useful to shape the plant, maintain its size, and remove any damaged or diseased foliage. Prune as needed, but avoid excessive cutting back as the main stem does not resprout.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Tower of jewels prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ideally between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of equal parts potting soil, coarse sand, and perlite or pumice is beneficial to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Amend the mixture with organic matter, such as compost, to provide nutrients.

Repotting

The Tower of Jewels should be repotted every two to three years or when it has outgrown its current pot. It is essential to repot during the plant's dormant period, typically in the fall or early spring, to minimize stress on the plant.

Humidity & Misting

Tower of jewels thrives in low to moderate humidity conditions, typical of its native habitat in the Canary Islands. It performs well in the average humidity levels found in most homes and outdoor environments, without the need for additional humidity.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide full sun, well-draining soil, and occasional watering for indoor Tower of Jewels.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, and water sparingly for outdoor Tower of Jewels.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Echium wildpretii, commonly known as Tower of Jewels, begins its life cycle as a seed, which upon germination, grows into a small rosette of silver-hairy leaves. During its first year, the plant focuses on developing a strong root system and leafy growth. In its second year, it produces a tall flower spike, often reaching up to 3 meters in height, adorned with hundreds of small, vibrant red or pink flowers that are very attractive to bees and other pollinators. After flowering, which can last several weeks, the plant sets seed, ensuring the continuation of its species. Once seeding is complete, the Tower of Jewels dies, following a monocarpic pattern where it flowers, seeds, and then ends its life cycle. The seeds then either drop to the ground to begin the next generation or are dispersed by wind, birds, or other mechanisms.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• Propogation: Tower of Jewels, or Echium wildpretii, is most commonly propagated through its seeds. The best time to sow seeds is in the spring, after the last frost has passed. The method involves preparing a well-draining soil mix in a seed tray or pots where the seeds are thinly scattered and lightly covered with soil. Seeds require a warm and moist environment to germinate; maintaining a temperature around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (21 degrees Celsius) is ideal. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take from one to three weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves and are sturdy enough, they can be transplanted outdoors or into larger pots.