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Pentaglottis spp.
Overview
Pentaglottis is a genus in the borage family represented chiefly by Pentaglottis sempervirens, a coarse, bristly evergreen perennial native to southwestern Europe. Plants form a basal rosette of large, oval to lance-shaped leaves 4-16 inches (10-40 cm) long, roughly textured with stiff white hairs, from which branched flowering stems rise 24-39 inches (60-100 cm) tall. From spring into summer the stems carry small five-lobed flowers about 0.4 inch (10 mm) across, vivid blue with a white center, resembling those of forget-me-not and borage. The genus grows from a thick, deep black taproot that stores reserves and resprouts after the top is cut. Pentaglottis grows in partial shade and moist, fertile soil along hedge banks, woodland edges, and shaded roadsides. Beyond its native range in Spain, Portugal, and southwestern France it has naturalized widely across the British Isles and other parts of temperate Europe, where it persists in gardens and waste ground. Seed is set freely and the brittle taproot snaps when pulled, so established colonies regrow from root fragments and spread steadily. The bristly foliage can irritate skin on contact. The blue flowers draw bees and other long-tongued insects through the cooler months of the growing season.
Native Range
Pentaglottis is native to southwestern Europe, in Spain, Portugal, and southwestern France. It has naturalized across the British Isles and other parts of temperate western Europe, where it grows on hedge banks, woodland margins, and shaded disturbed ground.Suggested Uses
Pentaglottis is used in shaded wildlife and cottage plantings, on hedge banks, and in informal woodland-edge borders where early bees forage. Its spreading, self-seeding habit suits naturalized rather than formal settings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2' - 3'3"
Width/Spread1'6" - 2'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
blue with a white centerFoliage Description
dark greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Tolerates up to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight