How to plant anchusas

Anchusas or alkanets are wonderful hardy perennials bearing striking gentian blue flowers that will progressively turn a regal shade of purple-blue as they mature. Also known as buglosses (from Greek boúglōsson: ox tongue) due to the coarse, lance-shaped leaves they produce, these herbaceous plants loved by pollinating insects will create a bright and joyous display in the garden. Try mixing with achilleas, camassias, delphiniums, echinops, euphorbias or lilies.

Please note that the flowers can be used to add pizzazz to your salads and other culinary creations. They are also popular in floral compositions.

Plant in moist, well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun — anchusas will not tolerate waterlogged soils or winter wet. Deadhead first flush of flowers to encourage a second bloom.

Anchusas are supplied as bare-root perennials. Always unpack and plant on arrival. It can be beneficial to pot the plant until it has established itself.

Potential problems, pests and diseases:

• Powdery mildews: These fungal diseases, usually caused by planting in the shade or by poor air circulation, appear as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Cut off any infected material before disinfecting your scissors.