Alkanna tinctoria
TAXONOMY
FamilyBoraginaceae
GenusAlkanna
Zone6
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Alkanna tinctoria, commonly known as alkanet, is a perennial herb in the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is known for its vibrant blue flowers and red roots, which have been historically used as a dye. The plant prefers temperate climates and can tolerate a range of soil types, though it thrives best in well-drained loam.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Alkanet
Anchusa Bracteolata
Anchusa Rhizochroa
Anchusa Tuberculata
Buglossum Tinctorium
Lithospermum Tinctorium
Alkanna lehmannii
Alkanna tinctoria subsp. lehmanii
Anchusa tinctoria
Baphorhiza tinctoria
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Alkanna tinctoria requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers moderate temperatures and moderate humidity levels. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. The plant can tolerate some drought but will perform best with regular watering during the growing season.Soil
Alkanna tinctoria thrives in well-drained loam soil. It prefers soil that dries out almost completely between waterings. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal for this plant.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically in spring and summer, to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient burn.Repotting
Repot Alkanna tinctoria when it outgrows its current container, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh loam soil.Propagation
Alkanna tinctoria can be propagated by seeds or root cuttings. The best time to propagate is in spring. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a well-draining seed mix and keep them moist until germination. For root cuttings, take a healthy root section and plant it in a suitable growing medium.Pruning
Pruning is not generally required for Alkanna tinctoria. However, you can remove dead or damaged leaves and spent flowers to maintain the plant's appearance and encourage new growth. Prune in early spring before the growing season begins.Toxicity
Alkanna tinctoria is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is advisable to keep it out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidental ingestion.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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