California
Pride of Madeira in Santa Cruz
April 2008
Echium candicans, commonly known as pride of Madeira, is an evergreen shrub in the borage family, Boraginaceae. It is native to the central mountains of Madeira, Portugal, and is widely cultivated in mild coastal climates. Mature plants can reach 5–8 feet (1.5–2.5 m) in height and spread, with gray-green, hairy leaves and dense clusters of blue, violet, pale blue, or white flowers in spring and summer. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil and tolerates dry conditions once established.
Current Context
In coastal California, pride of Madeira remains a popular ornamental plant but can escape cultivation onto coastal bluffs and hillsides. The California Invasive Plant Council rates the species “Limited,” indicating that its statewide ecological impacts or distribution are limited, although it may be locally persistent. The species continues to hold the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
