Cynoglossum officinale Seeds

A native UK wildflower, Cynoglossum officinale is prized for its unusual, deep maroon-red flowers that provide a splash of subtle colour. This historic plant, also known as Hound's Tongue or Gypsy Flower , forms a rosette of large, grey-green, hairy leaves in its first year before sending up stately flower spikes in the second.

A Magnet for Wildlife

This hardy biennial is a fantastic plant for wilder gardens, wildlife meadows, and coastal areas. It thrives in the dry, sandy, and poor soils where other plants may struggle. The flowers are an important source of nectar, earning it the RHS 'Plants for Pollinators' mark as they are beloved by bees and butterflies.

Important Safety & Toxicity Warning

Despite its heritage, Hound's Tongue is toxic. The plant contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are known to be highly toxic to livestock, particularly horses and cattle, if ingested (e.g., in hay). All parts are hairy and can cause skin irritation or dermatitis in some people. We strongly recommend wearing gloves when handling this plant.

How to Grow Cynoglossum officinale

For best results, seeds are sown directly into the ground where they are to flower in the autumn (August-October). The seeds require a period of cold (stratification) to germinate effectively and will flower in their second year. Alternatively, sow indoors in late winter/early spring (at 15-20°C) or direct sow in spring.

This plant is ideal for a dedicated Plants for Pollinators or a traditional Cottage Garden collection. It pairs well with other tough wildflowers like Oxeye Daisies or Viper's Bugloss.

Plant Details & Specifications

RHS Plants for Pollinators The RHS Plants for Pollinators mark is only given to plants that support pollinating insects.