Echium fastuosum 'Star of Madeira'

Variegated form
Winter grower
Relatively short lived
Brittle branches

Echium pininana

These 18 month old plants were grown from seed.  They are typically biennial and do wonderfully in a semi shaded, frost free, garden.  The tallest plant in this photo is about 10'.  Blooms will form at the apex of each plant, creating a tower of violet blue flowers. 

 An amazing plant!