Contents
Description
Cynoglossum Officinale, also known as hound’s tongue or gypsyflower, is an herbaceous plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but can be found in other parts of the world, including North America, where it is considered an invasive species. The plant can grow up to 1m tall and has a thick stem covered with hairs. It produces clusters of small, blue or purple flowers that bloom from May to August.Cynoglossum Officinale has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its medicinal properties. The plant contains several active compounds, including allantoin, mucilage, and tannins, which have anti-inflammatory, astringent, and demulcent effects.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Cynoglossum |
Appearance
Cynoglossum Officinale has broad, lance-shaped leaves that are covered in rough, prickly hairs. The leaves grow in a basal rosette and can reach up to 20cm long. The stem is also covered in hairs and is usually reddish-purple in color. The flowers are small, star-shaped, and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. They are typically blue or purple but can also be pink or white. The plant produces small, black, bristly seeds that are dispersed by animals or the wind.
Care Guide
Cynoglossum Officinale is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of conditions. Here are some care tips to help you grow this plant successfully:Water: Cynoglossum Officinale prefers moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.Fertilization: The plant doesn’t require much fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Cynoglossum Officinale grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Cynoglossum Officinale is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cynoglossum Officinale is relatively pest and disease-free but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot in wet conditions. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and isn’t overwatered. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Cynoglossum Officinale can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, waste grounds, hedgerows, and woodland edges. It prefers well-draining soil and is often found in areas with full sun or partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cynoglossum Officinale toxic?
A: Yes, the plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Cynoglossum Officinale be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant prefers full sun and is not suitable for indoor growing.
Q: How long does it take for Cynoglossum Officinale to bloom?
A: The plant typically blooms from May to August.
Q: Can Cynoglossum Officinale be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
Related Plants
- Cynoglossum amabile
- Cynoglossum montanum
- Cynoglossum virginianum
- Cynoglossum creticum
References
- Mabberley, D. J. (2017). Mabberley’s plant-book: a portable dictionary of plants, their classification and uses. Cambridge University Press.
- Rodriguez, R. J., White, J. F., Arnold, A. E., & Redman, R. S. (2015). Fungal endophytes: diversity and functional roles. CRC Press.
- Wade, M. (2015). The medicinal and poisonous plants of southern and eastern Africa. Struik Nature.
