My garden, alive in my pocket.
Track my garden
🌿

Cynoglossum creticum

Cynoglossum creticum · Boraginaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant cynoglossum creticum: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Common name
Cretan Hound's Tongue
Family
Boraginaceae
Type
Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
Flowering
April to July
Mature size
30 to 80 cm in height
Foliage
Deciduous, greyish-green, downy
Hardiness
Hardy, tolerates down to -10°C
Origin
Mediterranean Basin and Crete region

Care

Watering

Water moderately once established, especially during dry periods. During active growth in spring, keep the soil moist but well-drained. Reduce watering in winter. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Light Exposure

Place the plant in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates sunny areas well and benefits from at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. It also adapts to light partial shade in very hot regions.

Soil

Prefer light, well-drained, and low-fertility soil. Sandy or gravelly soil works perfectly. Avoid waterlogging and heavy, compact soils. Adding sand or gravel improves drainage.

Pruning and Cutting

Pinch young plants to encourage branching and a bushy shape. Remove spent flowers to extend flowering. At the end of the cycle, cut back lightly to maintain a compact form.

Fertilizer

A balanced fertilizer applied in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote vegetative growth at the expense of flowering. On poor soil, a modest application of organic fertilizer will suffice.

Diseases and Pests

Watch for powdery mildew in humid climates, especially if air circulation is poor. Aphids may occasionally colonize it. Ensure good air circulation and avoid stagnant humidity to prevent problems.

Did you know?

Since antiquity, Cynoglossum creticum was used in Mediterranean folk medicine. Its Greek name "Cynoglossum" literally means "dog's tongue," referring to the shape and downy texture of its leaves. Its small pink to deep red flowers attract pollinators and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for Mediterranean flowering gardens.

Where to buy it

Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.

Add this plant to my garden →

Plants from the same family

Browse all plants →

Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.