Viper's bugloss (Echium vulgare)

Also known as: Blue thistle, Common viper's bugloss, Cat's tail, Snake flower, Viper's herb

Borage (Borago officinalis) is part of the borage family and is known for attracting honeybees. This attractive plant is easy to grow after it takes root. However, it can spread aggressively and has a deep taproot that complicates both transplantation and removal.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Viper's bugloss

Lifespan

Biennial, Perennial, Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

25 cm to 1 m

Spread

30 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm to 2 cm

Flower Color

Blue Pink Purple Violet

Images of Viper's bugloss

Quickly Identify Viper's bugloss

Vivid blue funnel-shaped flowers on bristly stalks

Distinctive viper head-like seed structures

Coarse, hairy lance-shaped leaves with white speckles

Stem with bristly, hairy texture and purple spots

Fruit comprising grey-brown nutlets with bumpy texture

Scientific Classification of Viper's bugloss

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Boraginales

Family

Borage

Genus

Viper's-buglosses

Species

Viper's bugloss

Planting and Growing of Viper's bugloss

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Viper's bugloss?

Echium vulgare, commonly known as Viper's Bugloss, thrives with a moderate watering regime. Aim to provide around 500 milliliters of water per watering. This amount ensures the soil is adequately moist but not waterlogged, promoting healthy root development and vibrant blooms.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Viper's bugloss? ›

What should I do if my Viper's bugloss is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Viper's bugloss? ›

How to save an overwatered Viper's bugloss? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Viper's bugloss?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours

Echium vulgare thrives best in full sun to partial sun conditions, optimizing its growth and flowering potential through ample sunlight exposure.

What is the best lighting condition for Echium vulgare? ›

How to achieve these lighting conditions? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal light? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Viper's bugloss?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Echium vulgare is between 60°F and 75°F. Within this range, the plant can photosynthesize efficiently and grow optimally. Temperatures in this bracket ensure that the plant's metabolic processes are not overstressed, allowing for robust growth and flowering.

What Soil is Best for Viper's bugloss?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Echium vulgare thrives in well-drained soil which prevents root rot and encourages healthy root growth. Ensuring good drainage can significantly enhance the plant's vigor and longevity. This plant prefers soils that are not overly rich in nutrients. Such conditions mimic its natural habitat and prevent excessive growth, which can make it prone to structural weaknesses. While drainage is essential, retaining some moisture is vital during dry periods. Sandy loam or loam provides a balance, allowing some water retention while still draining effectively. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Viper's bugloss?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Echium vulgare requires a balanced approach to fertilization. Generally, use about half the recommended dose of an all-purpose liquid fertilizer mixed with water. Apply this mixture to the plant every two weeks during its growing season. This ensures that the plant gets the nutrients it needs without the risk of over-fertilization, which could lead to poor growth or damage. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Viper's bugloss?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by sterilizing your pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease. Start at the base of the plant and remove any dead or dying stems to enhance air circulation. Next, identify and cut back any competing horizontal or overcrowded stems to allow more sunlight penetration. Trim the plant to your desired shape and encourage a bushier growth by pinching out the growing tips during late spring. Be gentle with your trimming to preserve the plant's natural contours. After pruning, gently water the plant to reduce shock and aid in recovery. Ensure the soil is well-drained but moist, as Echium vulgare prefers not to sit in waterlogged conditions. Consider applying a balanced fertilizer to support new growth and vitality. Regularly monitor for any signs of disease or pest issues following pruning. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Viper's bugloss plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Start by filling the seed tray with potting soil. Sow Echium vulgare seeds on the surface and lightly cover them with soil. Ensure the seeds are spaced adequately to encourage air circulation and prevent competition among seedlings.

Water the seeds gently to moisten the soil without dislodging them. Maintain consistent moisture through a light spray or misting method. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases, so ensure appropriate drainage.

Place the seed tray in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Keep the soil temperature around 15-20°C (59-68°F) to encourage germination. It may take 2-3 weeks for seedlings to appear.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Viper's bugloss plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Observing the roots emerging from the drainage holes is a clear signal that it's time to repot Echium vulgare. Additionally, if you notice reduced growth or overly compacted soil, consider repotting as well. Spring and summer are ideal times as the plant is actively growing, allowing it to recover more swiftly.

Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to give the roots room to grow, while maintaining proper drainage. A terracotta pot is a great choice as it allows the soil to dry out between waterings, which is beneficial for Echium vulgare's growth.

Opt for a well-drained sandy soil mix or a cactus potting mix to ensure proper drainage. Good drainage is crucial for preventing root rot, as Echium vulgare prefers soil that is neither too compact nor stays wet for prolonged periods.

Toxicity of Viper's bugloss

Is Viper's bugloss toxic to humans?

Viper's bugloss is a moderately toxic plant. Every part of this plant is harmful if ingested, leading to a range of potential symptoms that may include pain in the lips, tongue, and throat, as well as vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and possible liver damage. Moreover, the tiny hairs located on the leaves have been known to trigger contact dermatitis or allergic reactions, which can manifest as red, inflamed skin, blistering, swelling, or discomfort in the affected region. However, there is no indication that viper's bugloss induces any form of airborne allergy.

Is Viper's bugloss toxic to cat?

Viper's bugloss presents a toxicity hazard to cats and can lead to poisoning if parts of the plant are ingested. This includes the leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, roots, seeds, bark, and sap, which cats might unintentionally consume. Symptoms of physical distress or illness may appear in cats upon ingestion. Therefore, it is essential to keep a vigilant eye on your pet and promptly obtain professional veterinary care to safeguard their health after exposure to viper's bugloss.

Is Viper's bugloss toxic to dog?

Viper's bugloss is categorized as a plant that poses toxicity risks to dogs. If a dog accidentally consumes this plant, it can lead to poisoning. Every part of the plant—be it leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, roots, seeds, bark, or sap/juice—contains toxic compounds that can adversely affect canine health. Upon ingesting any component of the viper's bugloss, dogs might show an array of symptoms suggesting poisoning. These symptoms can vary significantly, spanning from mild reactions to more severe manifestations, which may include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive salivation, weakness, or even grave conditions such as tremors or seizures. It is vital for dog owners to vigilantly supervise their pets and restrict their access to viper's bugloss to prevent any chances of accidental consumption. Should a dog ingest any part of this plant, it is essential to seek prompt veterinary assistance to secure the most favorable outcome for the affected dog.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→