Lithospermum officinale
Family: Boraginaceae
Potentially Toxic
Herbaceous perennial. Native to Europe, west Asia, Russia and
Iran. I love this plant as it asserts itself in the early spring,
unconcerned by the cold, vigorous and lush. Historically, the seed
was used against stone and urinary gravel. Should not be used for extended
periods as it contains potentially toxic pyrrolizidine
alkaloids. Cultivation: Extra care. Requires
cold conditioning. Sow in the fall or early spring. Good subject
for outdoor nursery bed technique. Likes full sun, regular garden
soil. Transplant to 1 foot apart. Flowers white/green to 2
feet tall.
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