Hound's-tongue
cynoglossum officinale
Also known as: ["Cynoglossum germanicum","Cynoglossum vulgare"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its rough, hairy leaves and reddish-brown seeds with hooks that cling to fur and clothing.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Cynoglossum |
| Botanical Name: | Cynoglossum officinale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; deadhead flowers regularly to promote reblooming.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun during peak heat.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, fertile, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacting soil; test pH annually for adjustments.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best 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; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used for some varieties.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and indirect light for cuttings; consistent moisture for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, rooting hormone, misting bottle, sharp scissors or pruners.
Quick Tips
Use bottom heat for faster germination; keep cuttings out of direct sun; thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut spent flowers just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners; gloves to protect hands.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove only dead or damaged parts; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
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 can cause root damage, slow growth, or dormancy; frost can kill tender parts.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting; water deeply to cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label for NPK ratio; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also at risk from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Cynoglossum officinale, which can cause liver toxicity and gastrointestinal upset if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs are susceptible to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Cynoglossum officinale, which can lead to liver damage and other gastrointestinal disturbances upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCynoglossum officinale contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are primarily due to the accumulation of these compounds in the liver, leading to hepatotoxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hound's-tongue toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How does Hound's-tongue spread?
A: Its seeds have hooks that cling to fur and clothing, aiding dispersal.
Q: Is Hound's-tongue suitable for beginners?
A: No, it is moderately challenging to care for and is better suited for enthusiasts.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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