Bugloss

Anchusa

* photo taken on July 16 2016 in Bayfield, ON

* photos taken on July 7 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo of unknown internet source

Anchusa azurea ( Italian Bugloss )
A sturdy, clumping perennial, reaching up to 6 ( rarely over 5 ) feet in height, that is native to southern Europe near the Mediterranean Sea.
The ovate leaves, up to 12 inches in length, are bright green. The bright blue flowers, up to 1 inch wide, are borne on upright spikes during early summer, often repeating into early autumn if deadheaded.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun to partial shade on just about any light, well drained soil. It is deer resistant but root rot can be a problem, especially during winter on poorly drained clay. It is heat tolerant but doesn't enjoy the high humidity of the southeastern U.S. Cut back hard during mid-summer for a fresh crop of foliage. Propagation is from division during autumn or early spring ( flowering is improved if clumps are divided every few years ). Non-cultivars can be sown from seed on site during spring.

* historical archive photo

'Dropmore'
Reaches up to 6 ( rarely over 4 ) feet with intense bright blue flowers borne on large clusters.

'Loddon Royalist'
Reaches up to 3.5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, with intense mid-blue flowers.

'Royal Blue'
Reaches up to 3.5 ( rarely over 3 ) feet, with deep blue flowers.