How to Grow and Care for Buglosses

This plant produces large amounts of nectar for pollinators, so it is not unusual to see large numbers of bees around fields of common bugloss. It likes to grow in disturbed soils. In many cases, common bugloss is classified as a noxious weed. The richly purple roots can be used to create dyes for soaps and even food products.

Italian bugloss is a short-lived perennial that is drought-tolerant and performs best in full sun. You can extend the life of this perennial by dividing plants every few years. However, it self-seeds easily and will likely send up new blooms each year.

Undulate alkanet (Anchusa undulata) produces vibrant purple to blue-violet flowers that almost appear to sparkle, making it a popular choice in rock gardens. Its roots contain anchusin, a reddish brown resin used as dye in cosmetics and other products. Undulate alkanet attracts bees and several species of caterpillar.

Hybrid bugloss boasts vibrant, deep-blue flowers, making it a standout in any garden setting. Its hairy stems and lance-shaped leaves typically signal its readiness to thrive in well-drained soil and full sun. Adapted to attract pollinators, hybrid bugloss’s blooms offer a visual feast from late spring to early summer, while its drought-resistant nature ensures resilience in various environments.

Italian bugloss 'Dropmore' is named for Dropmore Park, a private estate with a renowned horticultural heritage that is located in Buckhimangshire, UK. This Italian bugloss cultivar is a little shorter than its parent plant (1.2 m as opposed to 1.5 m). This popular garden plant grows bright blue five-petaled flowers that bloom for a month in late spring or early summer.