Cynoglossum hungaricum Seeds (Hungarian Hound's Tongue)

Cynoglossum hungaricum is a robust Hardy Perennial (H5), often short-lived but highly vigorous. Belonging to the Boraginaceae family, it is a rare collector's relative of the woodland Forget-me-not, perfectly adapted to the UK climate where it can survive temperatures down to -15°C.

The "Hound's Tongue" Legacy: The name Cynoglossum is derived from the Greek for "dog's tongue," referring to the specific rough and velvety texture of the leaves. Like its relatives Borage and Comfrey, the foliage is covered in fine, stiff hairs, providing a unique tactile and visual texture in a cottage garden border.

Rare Collector's Species: Unlike the common blue varieties, the Hungarian species is rarely offered in the UK. It is valued for its strength and its ability to bridge the gap between spring biennials and summer perennials with its elegant, upright rose-pink sprays.

Hungarian Hound's Tongue is refreshingly easy to grow and remarkably unfussy about garden conditions once established.

How to Sow:
For the most vigorous results, direct sow seeds outdoors in Spring (March to May) where they are to flower. Alternatively, sow indoors in late winter at a consistent 15-20°C. Surface sow onto moist seed compost and cover lightly with soil. Germination typically occurs within 14-21 days. Transplant seedlings into small pots before moving them to their final positions.

Where to Plant:
They prefer full sun but will tolerate partial or dappled shade comfortably. They are not fussy about soil type, provided it is well-drained. Like most members of the Borage family, they possess a resilient nature and can cope well with dry spells once their root systems are established.

Ongoing Care:
These are low-maintenance plants that require minimal pampering. Deadheading spent flower spikes will encourage a longer blooming period and prevent the plant from putting all its energy into seed production. If allowed to set seed, they may produce "volunteer" seedlings, providing you with free, vigorous plants for future seasons.

The soft rose-pink of this species works spectacularly in romantic, pastel-themed borders. Pair it with these available seeds from our range:

• 💗 Cynoglossum 'Mystery Rose': The Tonal Match. Planting these two cousins together creates a multi-layered, smoky pink display. The dusty rose of 'Mystery Rose' complements the cleaner pink of C. hungaricum perfectly, creating a professional designer look in any sunny border.
• 🤍 Achillea 'Ballerina': The Texture Pair. The pure white pompom-like flowers of 'Ballerina' provide a crisp, cooling contrast to the soft rose sprays of the Hound's Tongue. Both share a love for sunny, well-drained spots and flower in harmony during the early summer.

Sow indoors in late winter or direct sow in spring for a delicate harvest of soft pink flowers from late spring through to midsummer.