Bugloss Anchusa arvensis
ABOUT
Anchusa arvensis, commonly known as small bugloss, is a flowering plant with a distinctive appearance. The plant hosts a series of rough, hairy leaves that are lance-shaped, providing a textured feel. These leaves are arranged in a basal rosette close to the ground, while the stems carrying the leaves can extend upwards with smaller, alternate leaves. The flowers of small bugloss are its most notable feature. They present as petite, funnel-shaped blooms that showcase a bright blue to violet palette, with a white center known as an eye. These delicate flowers are clustered at the top of each stem, forming a somewhat coiled inflorescence that opens gradually. The flowers typically have five petals that fuse into the characteristic funnel form. The stems of small bugloss are slender yet sturdy and can be covered with fine hairs, giving them a somewhat bristly appearance. The overall aesthetic of the plant is one of wild, untamed beauty, with its vivid flowers providing a stark contrast to the greenery of its foliage. The striking colors of the blooms make small bugloss a noticeable and attractive species in its natural habitats.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Boraginaceae.
Synonyms
Bugloss, Small Bugloss, Annual Bugloss, Field Bugloss.
Common names
Anchusa arvensis var. erecta, Anchusa prostrata, Anchusa sempervirens, Buglossoides arvensis, Lycopsis arvensis.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant known as bugloss is considered to have some level of toxicity to humans, although it might not be highly poisonous. Some members of the Boraginaceae family can contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are compounds known to cause liver damage and have carcinogenic effects if ingested in large quantities or over prolonged periods. The symptoms of poisoning from compounds like these may include liver damage, stomach issues, and at high intakes, potentially lead to liver failure. Acute symptoms might not be immediately apparent, as the damage can accumulate over time. It's advisable to avoid eating any part of the bugloss plant.
To pets
The toxicity of bugloss to pets can be similar to its effects on humans. If ingested, pets might also experience the effects of the toxic compounds, such as pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are present in some Boraginaceae species. Consumption can lead to liver damage, which may not be immediately evident. Long-term ingestion can cause a cumulative harmful effect, potentially leading to liver failure. The signs of liver toxicity in pets can include lethargy, loss of appetite, jaundice, and stomach upset. It would be prudent to prevent pets from consuming any part of the bugloss plant to avoid these risks.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 feet (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Anchusa arvensis, commonly known as small bugloss, is beneficial for attracting bees and other pollinating insects to gardens, which is essential for the pollination of many other plant species.
- Wildlife Habitat: Small bugloss can provide shelter and food for a variety of wildlife, including insects and small birds.
- Soil Improvement: This plant can help in the improvement of soil quality by adding organic matter when it decomposes, and its root system may help to prevent soil erosion.
- Aesthetic Value: Small bugloss adds natural beauty to landscapes with its vivid blue flowers, which can enhance the visual appeal of wildflower gardens and naturalized areas.
- Biodiversity Support: By being a part of diverse plant communities, Anchusa arvensis contributes to the overall biodiversity of an ecosystem, supporting a variety of organisms.
- Educational Interest: As a native or regional plant, small bugloss can be used for educational purposes to teach about local flora and the importance of native plants in ecosystem health.
- Culinary Use: Although not widely known for its culinary use, some parts of the plant may be edible and used in traditional dishes in certain cultures.
- Dye Production: Historically, plants from the Anchusa genus have been used to produce a red dye, and while not common, small bugloss may have similar properties.
Medical Properties- Expectorant - Anchusa arvensis has been traditionally used to aid in clearing respiratory tract mucus.
- Dermatological agent - Its extracts may have applications in treating skin irritations or disorders.
- Anti-inflammatory - The plant may possess anti-inflammatory properties that could be beneficial in reducing inflammation.
- Diuretic - Anchusa arvensis might be used to promote the production of urine, aiding in detoxification and kidney function.
- Febrifuge - The plant is sometimes used to reduce fever by inducing perspiration.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Anchusa arvensis, commonly known as Bugloss, has been used historically to make a red dye for textiles, deriving its color from the roots of the plant.
- The flowers of Bugloss can serve as a decorative element in salads, providing a mild flavor and a pop of color.
- In some traditional practices, the stalks of Bugloss were woven into rough fabrics or mats.
- Bugloss can be used in companion planting to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to gardens, benefiting the overall health of the plant ecosystem.
- The plant is known to have been used as an indicator for soil health, where thriving Bugloss suggests a well-balanced soil.
- Leaves of Anchusa arvensis have sometimes been boiled and added to compost as a green manure, enriching the soil with nutrients.
- The dense growth habit of Bugloss can provide ground cover, helping to reduce soil erosion in certain agricultural settings.
- Historically, the seeds of Anchusa arvensis could be mixed with other grains to make a rudimentary flour for baking in times of scarcity.
- The vibrant blue flowers could be used in crafting natural inks and pigments for artwork or fabric staining.
- Bugloss, because of its deep roots, has been utilized in phytoremediation to improve soil quality by accumulating and stabilizing soil contaminants.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Bugloss is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Bugloss is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Forgotten Beauty: Although not widely recognized, Anchusa arvensis, commonly known as bugloss, typically symbolizes hidden or forgotten beauty due to its tendency to grow in overlooked places.
- Survival: Bugloss is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in poor, dry soils. Consequently, it represents the ability to survive and adapt in challenging conditions.
- Solitude: Given its solitary growth habit in sparse fields, bugloss can also symbolize the concept of solitude or finding strength in one's own company.
- Honesty: The simple and unassuming appearance of bugloss has led it to be associated with plainness and honesty, devoid of pretension.
WaterBugloss, or Anchusa arvensis, should be watered thoroughly, with the topsoil being allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid waterlogging the roots. In the growing season, this may translate to watering once every week with approximately one gallon of water, depending on climate and soil conditions. During hot, dry periods, water usage may increase, and the plant may need additional water to prevent stress. Over the winter, watering should be reduced significantly, particularly if the plant is in a region with natural rainfall.
LightBugloss prefers full sun conditions, meaning it thrives best in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid placing it in too much shade, as this can result in weaker growth and fewer flowers. A south-facing location is often ideal for providing the light levels that Anchusa arvensis needs.
TemperatureBugloss is adaptable to a range of temperatures and can survive minimum temperatures around 20°F, although it grows best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Avoid exposing the plant to prolonged periods of heat above 90°F, as this can stress the plant and affect its growth.
PruningBugloss benefits from occasional pruning to remove dead or faded flowers, which encourages further blooming. The best time to prune is after the first flush of flowers has faded, usually in late spring or early summer. Snipping off the spent flower spikes will often result in a second bloom period.
CleaningNot needed
SoilBugloss prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. A mix of loam, sand, and compost will provide the nutrients and drainage the Common Bugloss needs.
RepottingCommon Bugloss, being an annual, does not generally require repotting. It completes its life cycle in one year and can be sown annually as needed.
Humidity & MistingCommon Bugloss is adaptable to a range of humidity levels and does not require specific humidity conditions to thrive, making it quite versatile.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in a sunny spot, ensure well-drained soil for Bugloss.
Outdoor
Sow in spring, full sun, well-drained soil for Bugloss.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleAnchusa arvensis, commonly known as Bugloss or Small Bugloss, begins its life cycle as a seed that germinates in the spring. Upon germination, it develops a rosette of basal leaves, staying close to the ground initially. As it grows, Bugloss produces a stem with alternating leaves and begins to form flower buds. These flowers, usually vibrant blue in color, bloom in late spring to summer and are followed by the formation of nutlet fruits. Once pollinated, often by bees, the plant sets seeds that are dispersed by various means, including wind and animal movement. Finally, as an annual plant, Anchusa arvensis completes its life cycle within one growing season, dying after seed setting, but ensuring the next generation through its seeds.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring
The most popular method of propagation for Bugloss, scientifically known as Anchusa arvensis, is by seed. Seeds can be sown directly into the ground in either autumn or spring, depending on local climate conditions. In temperate regions, sowing in autumn allows the seeds to go through a natural stratification process as they experience winter temperatures, which can break dormancy and trigger germination come spring. For spring sowing, after the risk of frost has passed, simply scatter the seeds onto prepared soil and lightly cover them with about 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters) of soil. Keep the soil moist until seedlings establish. Seedlings will emerge in a few weeks, and the plants will start to flower in the summer.
