Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ (Italian Bugloss)

Highly popular since its introduction 50 years ago, Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ (Italian Bugloss) is a biennial or short-lived perennial boasting loose clusters of tiny rich gentian-blue flowers, resembling those of forget-me-nots. The charming blossoms rise on strong, sturdy stems atop low clumps of large, deep green, hairy leaves. Unlike many Italian Bugloss selections, Loddon Royalist does not need staking. Blooming profusely for about 4 weeks in late spring to early summer, this Mediterranean native makes a beautiful background specimen for the sunny late spring border. Although short-lived, Anchusa azurea often self sows and remains present in the garden.

• Grows up to 30-36 in. tall (75-90 cm) and 18-24 in. wide (45-60 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils. Tolerates light shade, especially in hot summer areas. Thrives in rich and fertile soils but tends to grow taller and flop. Good soil drainage is essential to prevent rot issues. Drought tolerant!
• A welcomed addition to beds and borders or naturalized areas. 
• Keep an eye out for leaf-mining flies, powdery mildews. Attracts bees and butterflies, but deer and rabbits tend to ignore this plant.
• Deadheading of spent flowers will promote new blooms and prevent undesired self-seeding. To increase the longevity of this short-lived perennial, cut back to the crown after flowering, and divide plants every two or three years.
• Propagate by seed, root cuttings or by softwood cuttings from the base of young shoots.