Anchusa azurea

Anchusa azurea is one of the best plants to provide a hit of intense blue in the garden. The tall plants have a bristly, hairy texture rather like comfrey, while the flowers are held well above the leaves and shine out at the back of a border. It's a great choice for growing in a mixed herbaceous border or cottage garden. Its blooms are loved by bees.

Grow Anchusa azurea in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Stake plants and cut back stems after flowering in early autumn. Root cuttings can be taken from autumn to early winter and clumps divided in early spring, but it will self-seed freely.