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Description
Anchusa Crispa, commonly known as wrinkled bugloss or crested anchusa, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. The plant features bright blue flowers that bloom in the late spring to early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. The leaves are wrinkled and hairy, and the stems can grow up to 60 cm tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Lamiales | Boraginaceae | Anchusa |
Appearance
Anchusa Crispa grows up to 60 cm tall and has a spread of 30 cm. The leaves are wrinkled and hairy, measuring around 15 cm long and 7 cm wide. The plant produces bright blue flowers that bloom in the late spring to early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. Each flower is approximately 1.5 cm in diameter and grows in clusters on the stem. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Care Guide
Anchusa Crispa requires moderate watering and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. It prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Anchusa Crispa is susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot diseases. These can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not overwatered and by maintaining good airflow around the plant. The plant may also be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Anchusa Crispa is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It prefers to grow in sunny locations in well-drained soils. The plant is often found growing in meadows, along roadsides, and in other open areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Anchusa Crispa a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Anchusa Crispa is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant.
Q: What is the best time to plant Anchusa Crispa?
A: Anchusa Crispa should be planted in the spring or fall.
Q: How often should I fertilize Anchusa Crispa?
A: Anchusa Crispa should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What are some common pests that attack Anchusa Crispa?
A: Anchusa Crispa may be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Related Plants
- Anchusa azurea
- Anchusa capensis
- Anchusa italica
- Anchusa officinalis
- Anchusa strigosa
References
- RHS. “Anchusa Crispa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/2665/Anchusa-crispa/Details.
- “Anchusa Crispa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b560.
- “Anchusa Crispa.” Plant Finder, www.plantfinder.sunset.com/plant-details.jsp?id=0000006767.
