Pontechium maculatum (Red Bugloss)

50 (70)cm, Red Bugloss (syn. Echium russicum, syn. Echium rubrum) produces a very floriferous, intense red to burgundy-red inflorescence above a biennial to semiperennial basal rosette of shiny, lanceolate, dark green and coarsely hairy leaves. An inferior form of Pontechium maculatum is sold by many seed dealers as Echium amoenum 'Red Feathers'. However, true Echium amoenum is a completely different species with a very distinct habit and very large, up to 3 cm long distinctive flowers, and it is not in general cultivation in the western hemisphere. Pontechium maculatum is native of East Europe (eastern Austria to northern Balkan, extending to Caucasus and north-eastern Turkey) growing in dry, rocky fields. Easily grown in any rocky or sandy, well drained soil in full sun. VI-VII.
20 seeds per package.