Alkanet
anchusa officinalis
Also known as: ["Common Alkanet","Livery Cress"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant in the Boraginaceae family, known for its vibrant blue flowers and historical use as a dye.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Anchusa |
| Botanical Name: | Anchusa officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near heat sources.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding for mature plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Anchusa officinalis, especially with prolonged exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Anchusa officinalis can lead to liver toxicity in dogs, particularly with repeated exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAnchusa officinalis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are cumulative and may not manifest immediately.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Anchusa officinalis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.
Q: How should Anchusa officinalis be cared for?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does Anchusa officinalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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