Cynoglossum officinale
hound's tongue
A softly hairy biennial to about 70cm tall, initially forming a basal rosette of grey-green, elliptic-oblong leaves to 12cm long, and in the second year producing loose clusters of dark purple-red flowers during summer
Other common names
common dog's tonguecommon hound's tongue
see moredog bur
gypsy flower
rose noble
sheep lice
Tory weed
wood mat
beggar's lice
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Purple Red | Green | ||
| Autumn | ||||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Cynoglossum can be annuals, biennials or perennials, usually short-lived, with roughly hairy, simple, lance-shaped to oblong leaves and cymes of blue, purple pink or white, forget-me-not-like flowers from spring to autumn
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, W Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Grows well in dry, gravely ground and on coastal sandy soils
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in-situ in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Wildlife gardens
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Get involved
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