Unleash the force with this Star Wars themed plant: Echium candicans ‘Death Star’

I have been a Star Wars fan since 1977 when Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope was released in theaters. It was the first time I ever had to stand in a long line to get into a movie theater. Nowadays, I don’t usually stand in line at a theater, but I will stand in line to buy a cool plant.

I have collected Star Wars-themed plants over the years. Begonia darthvaderiana, Fuchsia ‘Star Wars’ and Primula auricula ‘Darth Vader’ and ‘Palpatine’ are a few noteworthy varieties, each a beautiful plant in its own right. Echium candicans ‘Death Star’ is my favorite of all the cultivars I’ve grown. I found it a long time ago, in a nursery far, far away.

Echium candicans ‘Star of Madeira’ has several variant forms of variegation. ‘Death Star’ has light-green variegation on a dark-green leaf. Other forms have chartreuse variegation on the outer edge of the willow-shaped leaves.

Like its species counterpart, ‘Death Star’ forms a broad evergreen mound of foliage that can reach 4 to 6 feet tall and even wider in mild climates. The dramatic rosettes of variegated leaves provide year-round interest, but the real show begins in late spring when towering flower spikes emerge from the crown.

The densely packed blooms open in shades of lavender-blue and are highly attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. In full bloom, the plant seems to radiate energy much like its galactic namesake.

Native to Madeira, Echium candicans thrives in full sun and well-drained soils. Once established, it is remarkably drought tolerant and performs exceptionally well in Mediterranean and coastal climates. Growers should avoid overwatering, particularly during winter months, as excessive moisture can lead to root and crown problems.

The plant is generally hardy to USDA Zone 9 and benefits from protection during prolonged freezes. In colder climates, it can be grown in a large container in a greenhouse to over-winter, and it will bloom the following spring. 

The variegation of ‘Death Star’ adds an extra layer of visual appeal, making it a standout specimen in containers, rock gardens and water-wise landscapes. Even when not in flower, the contrasting foliage draws attention from across the garden. For Star Wars enthusiasts and plant collectors alike, ‘Death Star’ proves that the force is strong in this cultivar!

Mark Leichty is the director of business development at Little Prince of Oregon Nursery near Portland. He is a certified plant geek who enjoys visiting beautiful gardens and garden centers searching for rare and unique plants to satisfy his plant lust. mark@littleprinceoforegon.com