Alkanna
Contents
Description
Alkanna, also known as Alkanet or Anchusa, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated in Asia, Europe, and North Africa. Alkanna has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant due to its healing properties. Its roots contain a red dye that has been used to color fabrics and cosmetics.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Alkanna |
Appearance
Alkanna is a perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has lance-shaped leaves that are covered in stiff, bristly hairs. The flowers are blue or purple and bloom in clusters at the end of the stems. The roots of the plant are long and cylindrical and contain a red dye.
Care Guide
Alkanna is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for its care:
Water: Alkanna prefers well-drained soil, and it needs regular watering during the growing season. However, it is essential not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Alkanna does not require a lot of fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Alkanna grows best in well-drained, sandy soil. It prefers neutral to alkaline soil with a pH between 6.5 and 8.0.
Sunlight: Alkanna requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones: Alkanna can grow in hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Alkanna is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Some common pests that can affect Alkanna include aphids and spider mites. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Alkanna is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in rocky, dry areas. It is also grown in gardens and is used in traditional medicine.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Alkanna safe to use in cosmetics?
A: Yes, Alkanna is safe to use in cosmetics. Its red dye is used in lipsticks, soaps, and other beauty products.
Q: Can Alkanna be grown indoors?
A: Alkanna is primarily an outdoor plant and requires full sun to partial shade. However, it can be grown indoors in a sunny window if provided with adequate light.
Q: How long does it take for Alkanna to bloom?
A: Alkanna blooms in late spring to early summer and can continue to bloom sporadically throughout the summer.
Q: Can Alkanna be used to treat skin conditions?
A: Yes, Alkanna has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and wounds.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Boraginaceae family:
- Borage (Borago officinalis)
- Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
- Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis)
- Lungwort (Pulmonaria officinalis)
References
- Alkanna tinctoria (L.) Tausch. (n.d.). Plants for a Future. Retrieved August 17, 2021, from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Alkanna+tinctoria
- Alkanna tinctoria (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved August 17, 2021, from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?taxonid=278714&isprofile=0&basic=alkanna
- Boraginaceae (n.d.). Flora of North America. Retrieved August 17, 2021, from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=10060
