About

Anchusa arvensis is a hairy, bristly annual. Its leaves are narrow, pointed, and wavy, exhibiting a somewhat warty texture, with the upper leaves wrapping around the stem. From early summer to autumn, it produces clusters of small, blue, tubular flowers that flare outward.

About the genus

Anchusa comprises erect or spreading plants that can be classified as perennials, biennials, or annuals. Their leaves are typically hairy or bristly, and they produce clusters of tubular or salver-shaped flowers, which are predominantly blue in color.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Annual Biennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
1-2 years
Suggested uses
Wildlife gardens, Wildflower meadow
Native to
Eurasia

Care notes

Cultivation
Occurs naturally on disturbed ground on light or sandy soils in acid or calcareous situations
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free