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Garden Anchusa

Anchusa azurea

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Boraginales
Family:
Boraginaceae (Borage)
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
1 metre tall
Habitats:
Fields, gardens, roadsides, wasteland.

Flower:
֍
Blue, 5 petals
 
Tiny clusters of tubular, violet-blue flowers. Pollinated by bees.
Fruit:
The fruit is a small nutlet, 2 to 4mm across in size. The seeds ripen from July to September.
Leaves:
A clump-forming, bristly perennial plant with hairy, lance-shaped leaves. The stems are erect and branching. Garden escape species.
Other Names:
Anchusa, Bugloss, Italian Alkanet, Italian Bugloss, Sea Borage.
Frequency (UK):
Unusual  

Similar Species

Other Information

Summary

Anchusa azurea, also known as Italian bugloss or blue alkanet, is a perennial plant that is native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the borage family and is known for its small, blue or purple flowers and hairy, grey-green leaves. Anchusa azurea is a tall plant that can reach heights of up to 3 feet (1 meter) and is often used as a border plant or in naturalized areas. It is easy to grow and is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and climates.anchusa azurea prefers full sun and is drought-tolerant once established. The plant is generally hardy and low maintenance, but it can be prone to pests such as slugs and snails.anchusa azurea is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and to determine the safety and effectiveness of using it medicinally.

Blog

Garden Anchusa, also known as Anchusa azurea, is a beautiful and versatile perennial plant that can add color and interest to any garden. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, and it is known for its stunning blue flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer.

Anchusa azurea is a hardy plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It is a member of the borage family, and its leaves are glossy and green, with a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are bright blue and trumpet-shaped, and they are arranged in spikes at the top of the plant.

One of the great things about Garden Anchusa is its ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden. It is a great plant to include in a butterfly garden or a pollinator-friendly landscape. Additionally, the plant is drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for gardeners in areas with low rainfall.

When planting Garden Anchusa, it is best to choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be planted in the spring or fall, and it can be propagated by seed or division. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance, and it can be left to grow naturally, or it can be cut back after blooming to encourage bushier growth.

In addition to its ornamental value, Garden Anchusa has a history of medicinal uses. Historically, the plant was used to treat a variety of ailments, including skin conditions and respiratory problems.

Another great feature of Garden Anchusa is its versatility in garden design. It can be used as a border plant, in mass plantings, or as a specimen plant. It can also be used as a cut flower and can be dried for use in dried flower arrangements.

Garden Anchusa is also a great plant for cottage gardens and wildflower gardens, as it has a relaxed and natural appearance. It can be paired with other perennials such as daisies and foxgloves for a beautiful, naturalistic look.

When it comes to caring for Garden Anchusa, it is important to note that it is not tolerant of wet soil, so it is important to plant it in well-drained soil. It is also not tolerant of extreme heat or cold, so it is best to plant it in a location that is protected from harsh winds and extreme temperatures.

In terms of pests and diseases, Garden Anchusa is relatively resistant to most common problems. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust, so it is important to keep an eye out for these issues and treat them promptly if they occur.

Overall, Garden Anchusa is a beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial that can add color and interest to any garden. Its bright blue flowers, versatility in garden design, and low maintenance needs make it a great choice for any gardener. And its history of medicinal uses and its ability to attract pollinators make it a unique and valuable addition to any garden.

Another great feature of Garden Anchusa is its versatility in garden design. It can be used as a border plant, in mass plantings, or as a specimen plant. It can also be used as a cut flower and can be dried for use in dried flower arrangements.

Garden Anchusa is also a great plant for cottage gardens and wildflower gardens, as it has a relaxed and natural appearance. It can be paired with other perennials such as daisies and foxgloves for a beautiful, naturalistic look.

When it comes to caring for Garden Anchusa, it is important to note that it is not tolerant of wet soil, so it is important to plant it in well-drained soil. It is also not tolerant of extreme heat or cold, so it is best to plant it in a location that is protected from harsh winds and extreme temperatures.

In terms of pests and diseases, Garden Anchusa is relatively resistant to most common problems. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust, so it is important to keep an eye out for these issues and treat them promptly if they occur.

Overall, Garden Anchusa is a beautiful and easy-to-grow perennial that can add color and interest to any garden. Its bright blue flowers, versatility in garden design, and low maintenance needs make it a great choice for any gardener. And its history of medicinal uses and its ability to attract pollinators make it a unique and valuable addition to any garden.

In conclusion, Garden Anchusa is a must-have plant in any garden, with its beautiful blue flowers and its versatility in garden design. It is a drought-tolerant, low maintenance and easy to grow plant that can be used in a variety of ways in the garden, whether it's as a border, mass planting, or as a specimen. It's also a great choice for wildflower gardens, cottage gardens, and pollinator gardens. With its ability to attract pollinators and its history of medicinal use, it's not only beautiful but also practical plant to have in your garden.


Distribution Map

Reproduced by kind permission of the BSBI.

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