Italian Bugloss, Alkanet

Heat Tolerance: Some afternoon shade is useful in hotter climates

Sun Exposure: Full sun

Origin: Europe and Asia

Growth Habits: Herbaceous perennial, 1 to 5 feet tall (30-150 cm), 12 to 18 inches spread (30-45 cm); hairy stems; lance shaped leaves, 4 to 8 inches long (10-20 cm)

Flowers: Blue flowers

Watering Needs: Moderate water, needs good drainage

Propagation: Root cutting, named cultivars don't come true from seed, division, seeds indoor in late winter to spring (1 to 4 weeks)

• 'Loddon Royalist' is a medium-sized cultivar, up to 3 feet tall (90 cm), with large flowers up to 0.8 inches in diameter (2 cm)
• 'Dropmore' is generally propagated by seeds

Blooming Habits:
The Alkanet bears blue flowers, in loose clusters, in late spring. Deadhead the spent flowers to prolong the blooming period and prevent self-sowing. The foliage can be cut back after it finishes blooming, if it starts flopping.

Culture:
Plant 12 to 18 inches apart (30-45 cm).