Anchusa laxiflora
bell-flowered borage
A rosette-forming herbaceous perennial which is short-lived. Hairy, dark green leaves can be oval to lance shaped and loose clusters of pale blue bell-shaped flowers are produced on slim stems from early summer through to the autumn. Leaves can be used to flavour food or drinks
Other common names
slender borage
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Blue | Green | ||
| Autumn | Blue | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Genus
Borago can be annuals or perennials, with coarsely hairy stems and simple leaves, with branched cymes of blue flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Corsica, Sardinia
How to grow
Cultivation
Easy to grow in any reasonably drained soil in sun or partial shade. Dislikes transplanting
Propagation
Propagate by seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildlife gardens
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Leave to self-seed after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs and leaf-mining flies
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
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