Bugloss 'Loddon Royalist' Anchusa azurea 'Loddon Royalist'

Water

For the Italian Bugloss (Anchusa azurea 'Loddon Royalist'), regular watering is key to keeping the plant healthy, especially during dry spells. Aim to water the plant deeply once a week, providing about 1 inch of water each time, which is roughly 0.6 gallons per square yard. During hot or windy weather, it might be necessary to water more frequently, as the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water the plant in the morning to allow any excess moisture on the foliage to evaporate during the day, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

Light

Italian Bugloss thrives best in full sun to light shade conditions. To promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering, position the plant in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. An east- or west-facing garden bed would be ideal, ensuring the plant enjoys the gentle morning or evening sun while avoiding the intense midday rays in hotter climates.

Temperature

Italian Bugloss prefers moderate temperatures and can survive a range from approximately 28°F to 90°F. However, the ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50°F and 75°F. It is frost-hardy down to about 28°F, but extended periods of cold below this temperature can damage the plant. During the summer months, ensure that the plant has sufficient water to cope with temperatures reaching toward the upper end of its tolerance.

Pruning

Prune Italian Bugloss after the first flowering to encourage a second bloom, typically cutting back by one-third to maintain a bushy habit and remove spent flower stalks. This can be done in late spring or early summer, after the first flush of blooms has faded. Deadheading throughout the growing season can also promote more blooms.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Italian Bugloss (Anchusa azurea 'Loddon Royalist') prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of garden soil, compost, and a handful of perlite or coarse sand enhances drainage and fertility.

Repotting

Italian Bugloss doesn't often need repotting as it is usually grown as a biennial or short-lived perennial. Repotting is typically done if the plant has outgrown its container or the soil needs refreshing, generally every couple of years.

Humidity & Misting

Italian Bugloss thrives in average humidity levels found in outdoor environments and doesn't require special humidity considerations. It performs well when outdoor conditions provide natural airy circulation.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Provide bright light and good air flow.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, enrich soil, and space well.

• Hardiness zone

  3-8 USDA.

Life cycle

The life cycle of Anchusa azurea 'Loddon Royalist', commonly known as Italian Bugloss or Large Blue Alkanet, begins with seed germination in late winter to early spring, given the right conditions of moisture and temperature. Upon germination, seedlings develop a rosette of hairy, lance-shaped leaves. As the plant matures, it sends up flowering stalks in late spring to early summer, which can reach up to 1-1.5 meters in height and are covered with clusters of vivid blue, funnel-shaped flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into nutlet fruits containing seeds that will be dispersed to propagate the next generation. The plant is capable of self-seeding if the conditions are suitable. Italian Bugloss is a perennial, which means it can survive for several years, going through a period of dormancy in winter where above-ground parts die back, to regrow from its root system the following spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Anchusa azurea 'Loddon Royalist', commonly known as Italian Bugloss, is by seed. Seeds can be directly sown in the garden where plants are desired to grow during the spring when the soil temperature has reached about 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 21 degrees Celsius). To ensure a good sowing, the seeds should be distributed evenly and not planted too deep; a light covering of soil or simply pressing them into the soil surface is sufficient. Watering should be done gently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings usually emerge in two to three weeks, at which point they may require thinning to ensure that the plants have enough space to develop properly. This direct sowing method capitalizes on the robust nature of these seeds and will typically yield healthy, flowering plants in their first year.