Riparian Alkanet
(Anchusa riparia)
Riparian Alkanet (Anchusa riparia)
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Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements for Harlingen, Texas
This Plant | Your Site | Plant Suitability for Your Location | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
• Precipitation | 3" - 36" | 28" | Your precipitation may be too high for this plant. | Too high |
• High Temp. | 64°F - 95°F | 94°F | Your summer temperatures are normal for this plant. | Excellent |
• Low Temp. | 22°F - 49°F | 49°F | Your winter temperatures are normal for this plant | Excellent |
This plant may not grow well at your location - your precipitation is too high.
Summary
Anchusa riparia, commonly known as Riparian Alkanet, Riverbank Bugloss, or Streamside Anchusa, is a perennial herb native to South Africa. This plant typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a width of 1.5-2 feet (0.5-0.6 meters). Anchusa riparia is characterized by its lance-shaped leaves and vibrant blue flowers, which are quite showy and bloom profusely in the spring and summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Riparian Alkanet is valued for its striking blue flowers and its ability to thrive in damp conditions, making it a suitable choice for water gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized areas. It is also used for border plantings and as a component in pollinator-friendly gardens. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and grows best in medium draining clay, loam, or sandy soils. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is important to ensure good soil drainage to prevent root rot. Gardeners should be aware that Anchusa riparia can self-seed and spread, potentially becoming invasive in some areas.CC BY-SA 4.0
Riparian Alkanet is valued for its striking blue flowers and its ability to thrive in damp conditions, making it a suitable choice for water gardens, rain gardens, and naturalized areas. It is also used for border plantings and as a component in pollinator-friendly gardens. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and grows best in medium draining clay, loam, or sandy soils. While it requires medium amounts of water, it is important to ensure good soil drainage to prevent root rot. Gardeners should be aware that Anchusa riparia can self-seed and spread, potentially becoming invasive in some areas.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type:
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 1.5-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Blue
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Water Garden
Natural Habitat
Moist, riparian environments within the Mediterranean Basin
Other Names
Common Names: Riverbank Bugloss , Streamside Anchusa
Scientific Names: Anchusa riparia , Anchusa dregei , Anchusa officinalis
GBIF Accepted Name: Anchusa riparia