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

Green alkanet

Pentaglottis sempervirens · Boraginaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

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

JFMAMJJASOND Planting

ID card

Foliage
Evergreen, dark green and rough
Flowering
April to June, cobalt blue flowers
Mature size
60 to 90 cm tall, 45 to 60 cm wide
Growth
Fast and vigorous
Hardiness
Very hardy, down to -15°C
Origin
Western and central Europe
Soil type
Well-drained, tolerates poor and chalky soils

Care

Light exposure

Evergreen alkanet prefers full sun or partial shade. It tolerates partially shaded areas but will flower more intensely with good light. Plant it in an open location for better growth.

Watering

Water regularly after planting to encourage rooting. Once established, the plant is very drought-tolerant. During active growth, keep the soil slightly moist but never waterlogged. In winter, reduce watering.

Soil and drainage

Alkanet adapts to most soils, including poor and chalky soils. Ensure impeccable drainage to prevent root asphyxiation. Well-aerated soil promotes better flowering.

Pruning and cleanup

Pinch young plants at the start of growth to encourage a more compact form. After flowering, you can cut back faded stems. Remove dead or damaged leaves to keep the plant airy and healthy.

Nutrition

A moderate application of balanced fertilizer in spring is more than enough. Avoid excess nitrogen, which promotes foliage at the expense of flowering. Soil enriched with organic matter at planting time usually provides sufficient nutrients.

Health and prevention

Alkanet is very hardy and rarely affected by diseases. Watch for excessive moisture that could promote rot. Good ventilation and adequate drainage prevent most fungal problems.

Did you know?

Evergreen alkanet was once used in medieval herbals for its supposed 'comforting' properties. Its scientific name Pentaglottis comes from Greek and means 'five tongues', probably referring to its particular flower structure. It is highly appreciated by bees and pollinators, making it an excellent choice for pollinator 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.