Anchusa, Italian bugloss

Anchusa azurea

Physical Characteristics

Anchusa azurea is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.5 m (5ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3. It is in flower from June to August, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Europe - Caucasus. An occasional garden escape in Britain[17].

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Flowers - raw. An excellent and decorative addition to the salad bowl, or used as a garnish[183]. The tender young leaves and young flowering shoots can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable[7].

Medicinal Uses

Antitussive Depurative Diaphoretic Diuretic Poultice The whole plant is antitussive, depurative, diaphoretic and diuretic[7]. It is harvested when in flower and dried for later use. The dried and powdered herb is used as a poultice to treat inflammations[7]. Use internally with caution, the plant contains the alkaloid cynoglossine which can have a paralyzing effect[7].

Known Hazards

None known