Pink Fountain Echium Echium 'Pink Fountain'
ABOUT
The Pink Fountain is known for its striking flower spikes that bear a dense arrangement of small, funnel-shaped flowers, resembling a cascading fountain of blossoms. The flowers are predominantly pink in color, varying in shades from pale to more vivid tones, which contribute to the plant's ornamental appeal. The leaves of the Pink Fountain are typically narrow and elongated, lending a rough, hairy texture to the foliage. Despite the impressive floral display, it has a neat and compact growth habit, with the foliage providing a green to gray-green backdrop that contrasts beautifully against the vibrant pinks of the flowering spikes. The plant demonstrates a rosette-like formation at the base, from which the flower spikes emerge, standing out with their eye-catching color and form.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Boraginaceae
Synonyms
Pink Fountain, Tower of Jewels
Common names
Echium 'Pink Fountain'
ToxicityTo humans
Echium 'Pink Fountain' is not commonly listed as toxic to humans. However, some people may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation due to handling the plant, as echium species contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic in significant quantities over prolonged periods. Ingesting large amounts of the plant may potentially lead to liver damage due to these compounds. If someone were to consume parts of this plant, they might experience gastrointestinal distress or more severe symptoms associated with liver impairment, though such cases are rare and typically involve substantial, repeated exposure.
To pets
Echium 'Pink Fountain' contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic to pets if ingested in large quantities or over prolonged periods. While cases of poisoning are uncommon, ingestion of significant amounts could potentially lead to liver damage in pets. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, signs of liver failure like jaundice. It is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting this plant and to consult a veterinarian if any signs of illness are observed after possible consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Biennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
5-6 feet (1.5-1.8 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Shrub
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Canary Islands
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Echium 'Pink Fountain' attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden, supporting local ecosystems.
- Low maintenance: Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal care, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens.
- Ornamental value: With its tall pink spikes of flowers, Echium 'Pink Fountain' adds a dramatic vertical element and visual interest to landscapes and gardens.
- Long blooming period: The plant has a long flowering season, providing color and vibrancy in the garden for an extended period of time.
- Wildlife-friendly: Beyond pollinators, it can also provide shelter and food for wildlife, contributing to biodiversity.
- Drought resistance: Adapted to dry conditions, it's suitable for xeriscaping and can thrive in areas with water restrictions.
- Soil adaptation: This plant can adapt to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-draining soil, making it versatile for different garden conditions.
- Coastal garden suitability: Echium 'Pink Fountain' is salt-tolerant and can be planted in coastal areas where other plants might struggle.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Echium 'Pink Fountain' can serve as a natural dye source. The flowers may be used to produce dye for fabrics and materials.
- As a part of sensory gardens, the plant's texture and color provide visual and tactile stimulation for visitors.
- In eco-friendly art installations, Echium 'Pink Fountain' can be used to create living sculptures or other artistic displays.
- As a teaching tool in educational gardens, the plant can be used to help students learn about pollination and plant biology.
- The dried flowers of Echium 'Pink Fountain' can be used for crafting, such as in potpourri or decorative wreaths.
- In culinary presentations, the flowers can be used as an edible garnish for various dishes, adding color and mild flavor.
- Photography enthusiasts may use Echium 'Pink Fountain' as a subject for practicing macro and nature photography due to its intricate details.
- The plant can be used in landscape designs seeking to create a cottage garden aesthetic with its informal appearance and vibrant color.
- Echium 'Pink Fountain' can be planted for erosion control, as their root systems help stabilize soil on slopes and banks.
- Beekeeping enthusiasts might plant Echium 'Pink Fountain' to provide an attractive forage option for bees, contributing to healthy hives.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Tower of Jewels is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Tower of Jewels is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Pride: Echium plants are associated with pride due to their tall spikes of vibrant flowers that stand out in any landscape, exemplifying the notion of standing tall and proud.
- Royalty: The regal appearance of Echium 'Pink Fountain', with its fountain-like plumes of pink flowers, can symbolize royalty and an air of sophistication and elegance.
- Achievement: Given its impressive height and showy blooms, this plant can represent achievement or reaching for one’s goals as it stretches towards the sky.
- Diversity: With its variety of flower colors and forms, Echium 'Pink Fountain' can reflect diversity and uniqueness, reminding us of the beauty in variety.
WaterPink Fountain requires watering when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, which generally means once a week, but this can vary depending on the climate and weather conditions. It's best to use about half a gallon of water for a plant in a standard garden setting every time you water. Make sure the water penetrates deeply into the soil to encourage robust root growth. Avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases, and instead, water at the base of the plant. During hot and dry spells, you may need to water more frequently to ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely.
LightPink Fountain thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The ideal location is a spot where the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The intense morning sun is preferable, with some protection from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in hotter regions.
TemperaturePink Fountain Echium is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures but grows best when the temperature is between 50 and 75°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to around 20°F but should be protected from frost. The ideal temperature conditions for Pink Fountain Echium are mild to warm, avoiding extreme heat over 90°F.
PruningPruning Pink Fountain Echium focuses on maintaining its shape and encouraging more flowering. Trim back spent flower spikes after blooming to promote a second flush of flowers. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth commences. Pink Fountain generally does not require heavy pruning, but any dead or damaged stems should be removed to maintain plant health and appearance.
CleaningAs needed
SoilEchium 'Pink Fountain', or Tower of Jewels, thrives in soil that is well-draining and moderately fertile. A mix with plenty of sand or perlite to ensure drainage, along with compost or well-rotted manure to add nutrients, creates an ideal environment. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly alkaline, ranging from 7.0 to 8.0.
RepottingTower of Jewels should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. It is vital to provide fresh, well-draining soil each time to ensure the plant remains healthy.
Humidity & MistingTower of Jewels prefers a moderate humidity level but is quite adaptable and can tolerate drier conditions. The best humidity range for this plant is 40-50%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a bright spot, avoid overwatering.
Outdoor
Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Echium 'Pink Fountain', also known as Pride of Madeira, begins its life cycle when the seeds germinate, usually in spring or autumn, given adequate moisture and soil temperature. The seedlings then grow into rosette-forming plants, developing long, hairy leaves. In the following year(s), the plant matures and produces tall, spike-like inflorescences covered in pink flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies. After flowering, which typically occurs between late spring and summer, the plant sets seed. The seeds are then dispersed by wind or wildlife, allowing for the potential establishment of new plants. Finally, after seeding, the biennial or short-lived perennial Pride of Madeira often dies, completing its life cycle, although some may survive and flower in subsequent seasons if conditions are favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Propogation: Echium 'Pink Fountain', commonly known as Tower of Jewels or Pride of Madeira, is typically propagated through seeds. The best time to propagate this plant by seed is in the late winter or early spring, just before the last frost. To propagate Echium 'Pink Fountain' from seed, you'll need to start by collecting the seeds from the dried flower spikes. Once collected, the seeds can be sown in well-draining soil in a seed tray or pots. Cover the seeds lightly with soil since they need some light to germinate. Place the tray in a warm location, around 70°F (approximately 21°C), ensuring it has indirect light and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 1 to 3 weeks, after which you can transplant the seedlings to individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
