Creeping gromwell Buglossoides purpurocaerulea

Water

The Purple Gromwell (Buglossoides purpurocaerulea) should be watered deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Depending on the climate and weather conditions, watering once a week with approximately one gallon of water per plant may be sufficient. During the hot summer months, the plant might need more frequent watering, such as every few days. However, in cooler or rainy periods, you can reduce the frequency. It is important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Light

Purple Gromwell thrives in full sun to partial shade. It is best to plant it in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If grown in too much shade, its growth may become leggy, and it will not flower as prolifically.

Temperature

Purple Gromwell prefers a temperate climate and can generally survive in temperatures ranging from 20°F to 80°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 75°F. Although it is hardy, prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20°F may damage or kill the plant.

Pruning

Pruning Purple Gromwell is beneficial to maintain its shape and promote vigorous growth. Prune lightly after the plant has finished flowering to remove spent blooms and encourage a second flush of flowers. Pruning can be done annually, and the best time is usually in the late spring or early summer after the first flowering period.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Purple Gromwell prefers well-drained soil mixed with sand and compost to enhance drainage. The ideal soil pH for Purple Gromwell is between 6.0 and 7.5, leaning towards slightly acidic to neutral.

Repotting

Purple Gromwell, also known as Purple Gromwell, does not require frequent repotting and can be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot.

Humidity & Misting

Purple Gromwell thrives best in moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to the typical range found in most homes, which is generally between 40% and 60%.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Purple Gromwell in bright, indirect light indoors.

• Outdoor

  Grow Purple Gromwell in full sun to partial shade outside.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

Buglossoides purpurocaerulea, commonly known as Purple Viper's-Bugloss or Purple Gromwell, begins its life cycle with germination, which occurs in the spring when soil temperatures and moisture levels are suitable. Seedlings emerge and establish a rosette of leaves at the ground level. As the plant matures, it develops a sturdy stem and elongates, producing lance-shaped leaves and branching to form a bushy structure. Flowering typically occurs in late spring to early summer, displaying vivid purple to blue funnel-shaped flowers that attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the plant sets seed in the form of nutlets, which are dispersed by various means, including wind and animal movement. The plant is a biennial, sometimes growing as an annual, completing its life cycle in two years or less by dying after seed maturation and relying on the seeds to propagate the next generation.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-early summer

• The most popular method of propagation for Buglossoides purpurocaerulea, commonly known as Purple Gromwell or Purple Bugloss, is by seed. Sowing should be done in late winter to early spring, just before the last frost date in your area. For propagation, the seeds should be scattered over the surface of a well-drained seed starting mix, pressed into the soil but not covered, as they need light to germinate. The pot or tray should be kept at a temperature of about 70°F (21°C) and in a location with plenty of indirect light. Seeds usually germinate in 14 to 30 days when conditions are ideal. Once the seedlings have grown strong enough and the risk of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors where they will grow into flowering plants.