Purple Gromwell

(Aegonychon purpurocaeruleum)

Purple Gromwell (Aegonychon purpurocaeruleum)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 22" - 40"
High Temp. 73°F - 83°F
Low Temp. 27°F - 36°F

Summary

Aegonychon purpurocaeruleum, commonly known as Purple Gromwell, Bugleweed, or Bugleherb, is a semi-deciduous perennial herb native to moist meadows, forest clearings, and riverbanks in Europe, as well as temperate regions of Western Asia. It typically grows to a height of 0.5-1 feet (0.15-0.3 meters) and a width of 1-1.5 feet (0.3-0.5 meters). The plant features lance-shaped leaves and produces spikes of blue to violet flowers that are highly showy and bloom in late spring to early summer. The foliage may take on a purplish tinge in fall, adding seasonal interest.

Purple Gromwell is valued for its attractive flowers and ground-covering habit, making it a popular choice for border fronts, woodland gardens, and as underplanting for shrubs and tall perennials. It is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating a range of soil conditions, though it prefers medium draining loam or clay soils. While it thrives in full sun to part shade, it benefits from some afternoon shade in hotter climates. Adequate moisture is important, but the plant can tolerate short periods of drought once established. It can spread by rhizomes to form dense mats, which can be beneficial for erosion control but may also become aggressive in optimal conditions. It is important to monitor its spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 1-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Moist meadows, forest clearings, and riverbanks in Europe, and temperate regions of Western Asia

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: Aegonychon purpurocaeruleum, Aegonychon purpurea-caeruleum, Aegonychon purpureocaeruleum, Aegonychon repens, Buglossoides purpureocaeruleum, Buglossoides purpurocaerulea, Lithospermum caeruleum, Lithospermum longiflorum, Lithospermum lucanum, Lithospermum pumilum

GBIF Accepted Name: Aegonychon purpurocaeruleum