Oh, I know exactly what you mean about falling into Le Vesuve, I suppose you might remember that I did that right before toppling down the hill. Those were the days.....

You have the best looking bush !!

I was thinking about Bishop's Castle for you, when you said you were planning planting roses again, Ingrid. I remember how well it did for you and how much you loved it. If it's no longer available, I think Sheila would be more than happy to send you a cutting.

And seasiderooftop (in Malta) has Wild Edric.

Thank you, Trish, I'll keep that in mind. To tell the truth by next April I'll have 21 roses, and I need to be sure that I'll be capable of handling even that many. I tell myself that planting them and having the drip system will be the worst of it, and that I can deal with the rest, but one's situation does deteriorate. On the other hand, I can't even imagine the happiness of a colorful and fragrant garden again!

Thanks so much, Trish, for turning me on to Echium candicans. I looked for it on line and actually found an even more suitable one for my garden as it's much smaller but has all the positive attributes of cancicans. It's Echium webbii and I'm ordering it immediately. These plants are so tough and drought-tolerant and also like poor soil and little water. They're going to love it here!

Ingrid I think you really need another Bishop's Castle. I love mine and yours was even better!!! Unbelievable beauty!!! :) :)