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common bugloss

Scientific Name: Anchusa officinalis

Family: Boraginaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Biennial, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Common Bugloss (Anchusa officinalis)

Common bugloss, also known as Common Alkanet, Anchusa bugloss, or simply Alkanet, is a plant with a history of being both admired and considered a nuisance. This deep-rooted perennial, scientifically known as Anchusa officinalis, belongs to the borage family (Boraginaceae).

Considerations for Pets

  • The text indicates that Common Bugloss is hairy, though not spiny, which could cause irritation to pets.
  • The text mentions the fleshy stalks, but does not reference toxicity.

Considerations for Children

  • The text indicates that Common Bugloss is hairy, though not spiny, which could cause irritation to children.
  • The text mentions the fleshy stalks, but does not reference toxicity.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Anchusa officinalis L.
  • Family: Boraginaceae (Borage Family)
  • Synonyms: Common Alkanet, Anchusa bugloss, Alkanet, Common Anchusa.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Europe and Western Asia.
  • Introduced in North America and New Zealand.
  • Found in roadsides, pastures, and waste ground.
  • Prefers acid or calcareous/alkaline soils and is drought-prone.
  • Can be found in the Alps at elevations up to 2300 meters.

Ecological Role

  • Considered a noxious weed in some areas, including Lincoln County, Washington (Class-B designate) and King County, Washington.
  • A threat to agriculture, specifically invading alfalfa fields and pastures.
  • The fleshy stalks can cause baled hay to mold.
  • Competes strongly with other plants.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Deep-rooted perennial that reproduces by seed.
  • Grows 1 to 2 feet tall.
  • Forms a basal rosette in the first year and a single flowering stalk in the second year. Multiple stalks can appear in succeeding years.
  • Hairy, lance-shaped leaves and hairy, angular stems.
  • Flowers are blue to purple (occasionally pink) with white centers, originating at the ends of the stalks.
  • Narrow-leaved, growing up to 60 cm (2 feet) tall.
  • Blooms from May to October.

Quirky Facts

  • The name Echium (related genus, Viper's Bugloss) comes from the Greek word "echis," meaning "viper."
  • It is a favorite forage for honeybees.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Flowers are very popular among butterflies.