Green Alkanet Pentaglottis sempervirens
ABOUT
Pentaglottis sempervirens, commonly known as green alkanet or evergreen bugloss, is a perennial herb notable for its vibrant foliage and flowers. The plant has a bushy appearance with coarse, hairy leaves that are deep green in color and heart-shaped, with a slight point at the tip. The leaves can have a bristly texture, giving the plant a rough touch. It blooms profusely in the spring and early summer, extending into autumn in some climates, presenting small, bright blue flowers. These flowers are star-shaped, with five petals each, and are often described as having a forget-me-not-like appearance. The stems are also hairy and can have a reddish or purplish tint. The overall impression of green alkanet or evergreen bugloss is of a robust and somewhat wild plant, with its richly colored foliage contrasting with the striking blue flowers which provide a vibrant splash of color in gardens and wild areas alike.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Boraginaceae
Synonyms
Green Alkanet, Evergreen Bugloss
Common names
Anchusa sempervirens, Pentaglottis oxalidifolia, Pentaglottis hirta.
ToxicityTo humans
Green Alkanet is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to humans. There are no well-documented cases of toxicity from consuming or handling Green Alkanet. It is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants that are not known to be edible, as individual sensitivities can vary.
To pets
Green Alkanet is not widely recognized as a toxic plant to pets such as dogs or cats. There is limited information available on its effects after ingestion by pets, but it is generally not associated with poisoning. However, as with humans, it is prudent to prevent pets from consuming plants that are not certain to be safe, as they might have individual adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-3 feet (30-91 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Europe
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative appeal: Pentaglottis sempervirens, commonly known as green alkanet, features bright blue flowers and bristly green leaves that add beauty to gardens and outdoor spaces.
- Attracting wildlife: The flowers provide a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinating insects, thus supporting biodiversity.
- Low maintenance: Green alkanet is known for being hardy and able to thrive in a variety of soil types with minimal care, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Shade tolerance: The plant can grow in both sun and shade, allowing it to be planted in challenging garden spots where other plants may not thrive.
- Erosion control: With its robust root system, green alkanet can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion on slopes or banks.
- Historical use: The roots were traditionally used as a red dye, giving cultural and historical interest to those with an appreciation for plant-based crafts and history.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Green Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens) has been used historically as a red dye for textiles, though not as commonly as other plants.
- The plant's rot resistance makes it useful in the garden for creating low-maintenance, weed-suppressive ground cover.
- Bees and other pollinators are attracted to Green Alkanet's flowers, making it beneficial for boosting pollination in gardens.
- The leaves of Green Alkanet can be used to create a green dye, although it is not as potent as other natural dye sources.
- In art, the blue flowers of Green Alkanet can be pressed and included in floral collages and craft projects for their vibrant color.
- Gardeners can use Green Alkanet to provide an early source of nectar, as it blooms early in spring.
- Photographers and painters often make use of Green Alkanet's bright blue flowers as an attractive backdrop or subject in their compositions.
- The lush foliage of Green Alkanet can be instrumental in preventing soil erosion on banks and slopes in gardens.
- Educators and parents sometimes use Green Alkanet in teaching children about the life cycle of plants due to its ease of growth and maintenance.
- The roots of the plant have been historically used as a substitute for Alkanna tinctoria, the true alkanet, in the making of traditional wood stains.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Green Alkanet is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Green Alkanet is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Pentaglottis sempervirens, commonly known as Green Alkanet, often symbolizes resilience due to its hardy and vigorous nature that allows it to grow in a variety of conditions and climates.
- Everlasting Life: The species name 'sempervirens' translates to 'always alive' or 'evergreen', which is why Green Alkanet can represent immortality or eternal life.
- Consolation: Green Alkanet's soothing blue flowers are thought to bring comfort and can represent solace in times of sadness or grief.
WaterFor Green Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens), water the plant thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season in spring and summer, water the plant once a week with about one gallon of water per session for medium-sized plants. The frequency should be adjusted depending on weather conditions; more often during hot, dry periods and less during cool, rainy spells. Reduce watering in the fall and winter to every two weeks or less, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering to prevent overwatering.
LightGreen Alkanet thrives in partial shade to full sun, making it versatile for various garden spots. The optimal location would be where it receives morning sunlight and is shaded during the hottest part of the afternoon. It can also tolerate full sun conditions, but ensure it has adequate moisture to cope with the intense light.
TemperatureGreen Alkanet prefers moderate temperature conditions and is hardy in a range of climates. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20 degrees Fahrenheit and can tolerate heat as long as the roots are kept cool and moist. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, typical of its native habitats in Europe.
PruningPruning of Green Alkanet is generally to remove dead or damaged foliage and to control its spread, as it can become invasive. Trim the plant back in early spring or after flowering to encourage fresh growth and maintain the desired shape and size. Pruning can be done annually or as needed throughout the growing season to keep the plant looking tidy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Green Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens) is well-draining soil enriched with organic matter. A mixture of garden soil, peat, and perlite would be suitable. The plant prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH, around 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingGreen Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens) is typically grown as a perennial and does not require frequent repotting. Repotting can be done every 2-3 years to refresh the soil or if the plant has outgrown its container.
Humidity & MistingGreen Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens) is adaptable and doesn't require high humidity, making it suitable for average home conditions. Aim for moderate humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Green Alkanet in bright, indirect light with cool temperatures.
Outdoor
Plant Green Alkanet in partial shade with moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cyclePentaglottis sempervirens, commonly known as evergreen alkanet or perennial bugloss, begins its life cycle when seeds germinate, usually in early spring. The seeds develop into rosettes of coarse, hairy leaves at the soil surface. As the plant matures, it produces upright, leafy stems that can reach up to 60 cm in height. During late spring to summer, clusters of bright blue, forget-me-not-like flowers bloom, attracting pollinators. After pollination, the flowers develop into small nutlets which are the seeds, ensuring the propagation of the next generation. In its perennial nature, Pentaglottis sempervirens can survive winter, sprouting new growth from its base when conditions become favorable.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method for propagating Green Alkanet (Pentaglottis sempervirens) is through seed sowing. The optimal time for sowing seeds is in late winter to early spring as the temperatures start to rise, which aids in germination. To propagate Green Alkanet by seed, one should prepare a well-draining soil mix in a container or a designated area in the garden. The seeds need to be sown on the surface of the soil because they require light to germinate; hence, they should not be covered with soil but can be gently pressed into the substrate. After sowing, the soil needs to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings will emerge in several weeks, after which they can be thinned out or transplanted to their final positions when they are large enough to handle, generally when they have developed a couple of sets of true leaves.
