How to grow Anchusa, Care Guide and Varieties
Today, we are going to talk about one of our favourite plants, the Anchusa. This stunning plant is known for its vibrant blue flowers that can add a pop of colour to any garden. In this blog, I’ll be sharing with you the most popular varieties of Anchusa and how to grow them successfully.
Anchusa is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean region. It is also known as the Italian bugloss or the Alkanet. It is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions, making it a popular choice for gardeners. Anchusa is a perennial plant, which means that it comes back year after year, and it is known for its beautiful blue flowers that bloom in early summer.
Varieties of Anchusa
One of the most loved Anchusa varieties is the Azurea Loddon Royalist. This plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has beautiful blue flowers that bloom in early summer. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. The Azurea Loddon Royalist is a particularly stunning variety with its tall spikes of blue flowers that are sure to make a statement in any garden.
Another popular variety is the Blue Angel, which has a similar growth pattern to the Azurea Loddon Royalist but has a deeper blue hue to its flowers. The Blue Angel is a more compact plant, growing to around 2 feet tall, making it a great choice for smaller gardens.
Growing Guide
Anchusa is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. However, to ensure that your Anchusa grows to its fullest potential, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Soil: Anchusa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Make sure the soil is not too wet as it can lead to root rot. For the best growth, it is recommended to plant Anchusa in soil that has been enriched with compost.
Sunlight: Anchusa thrives in full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade. If you live in a hot climate, planting Anchusa in a location where it receives some shade in the afternoon can be beneficial.
Watering: Water your Anchusa regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Make sure not to overwater as it can cause root rot. It is recommended to water Anchusa deeply once a week rather than giving it light watering every day.
Fertiliser: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth. Anchusa can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer that will provide nutrients throughout the growing season.
Pruning: Prune your Anchusa after it has finished flowering to encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. Deadheading Anchusa can also promote new blooms.
Anchusa Care
Anchusa is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that your plant stays healthy and vibrant:
Pests and Diseases: Anchusa is generally pest and disease-free. However, keep an eye out for aphids and powdery mildew, which can be treated with insecticidal soap and fungicide respectively.
Propagation: Anchusa can be propagated by division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring. Potted plants can be divided by gently separating the root ball into smaller sections, being careful not to damage the roots.
It is worth noting that Anchusa has a taproot, which makes it difficult to transplant once it has been established. Therefore, it is best to plant it in its final position and avoid disturbing the roots.
In conclusion, Anchusa is a stunning plant that can add a pop of colour to any garden. By following the above tips and tricks, you can grow healthy and vibrant Anchusa plants in your garden. Whether you choose the tall and striking Azurea Loddon Royalist or the compact Blue Angel, Anchusa is sure to make a statement in your garden.
If you’re looking for a flower like the Anchusa to compliment it or because this flower isn’t quite right, then why not try the growing Lobelia which has similar small flowers and can provide similar blooms to gardens?
