Cold hardy member of a mostly tender genus. This native of the Ukrainian steppes sends up a 30″ spike of rose red flowers in mid summer. Excellent to include in meadows, with ornamental grasses in nearly any soil that is not boggy. Full sun. Loved by pollinators. Spike rises from a low basal rosette of leaves. Lifespan 3-5 years.. Reseeds reliably. Very light summer water.
Echium russicum
Family: Boraginaceae Genus: Echium
Plant type: Herbaceous perennial
Biomes/Growing conditions: Deer Resistance, Low Water/No Water
Sun exposure: Full Sun
USDA Hardiness zone: Zn4b -20º to -25ºF
Foliage color: Dark Green
Foliage season: Winter Deciduous