How to Grow and Care for Italian bugloss

Italian bugloss, also known as Garden anchusa, Large blue alkanet, Garden alkanet, Italian alkanet, Blue alkanet

Italian bugloss is a perennial plant that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant, making it relatively low-maintenance. Special care points include deadheading spent blooms to encourage more flowering and monitoring for snail or slug infestations, which can be a common issue. Overall, italian bugloss is an easy plant to care for, ideal for gardeners looking for minimal upkeep.

Watering schedule: Every week

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

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Planting and Growing Italian bugloss

Toughness	High
Care Level	Medium
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial, Biennial
Watering Schedule	Every week
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	6-7.5
Planting Time	Early spring
Hardiness Zones	3-8

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Varieties of Italian bugloss

Italian bugloss 'Dropmore'

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.

Italian bugloss 'Loddon Royalist'

Italian bugloss 'Loddon Royalist' is distinguished by its vivid, deep-blue flowers and bristly, lance-shaped leaves. This perennial reaches up to 1.5 meters in height, flourishing in well-drained soils under full sun. The striking blooms, which appear in early to mid-summer, attract a variety of pollinators, making italian bugloss 'Loddon Royalist' not only a garden favorite but also a supporter of local biodiversity.

Common Pests & Diseases

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More General Info About Italian bugloss

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Italian bugloss is distinguished by its bristly foliage and vivid, bright blue flowers. These flowers emerge in relaxed groupings, blooming prolifically from late spring through midsummer. Its perennial life cycle ensures that it returns year after year, although it tends to be short-lived. The plant stands erect, typically reaching heights up to 3-4 feet (about 90-120 cm) and is known for its rough texture. Each flower, presenting with five petals, provides a striking contrast against the green stems and leaves.