Cynoglossum officinale Seeds

Cynoglossum officinale is a robust Hardy Biennial (H7). As a native wildflower, it is perfectly adapted to the UK climate, surviving the coldest winters with ease. It follows a two-year cycle: forming a velvety grey-green rosette in its first year and sending up its structural flower spikes the following summer.

Nature's Velcro: A distinctive feature of Houndstongue is its seed production. After flowering, it develops four-part nutlets covered in tiny hooked prickles (burrs). Designed by nature to hitch a ride on passing animals, these "sticky" seeds are a fascinating example of botanical dispersal, though they are best planted at the back of borders away from long-haired pets!

RHS Plants for Pollinators: This species is officially recognized for its high nectar value. It is a vital food source for bumblebees and other long-tongued insects during the early summer months, making it a critical addition to any biodiversity-focused wild garden.

Houndstongue is a tough, low-maintenance native that thrives on neglect once established.

How to Sow:
Sow directly outdoors in Autumn (September-October) or Spring (March-May). Scatter the large seeds onto bare, raked soil and cover lightly (approx. 5-10mm deep). Autumn sowing is often more successful as the natural winter cold helps to break seed dormancy, leading to stronger spring germination.

Where to Plant:
They demand full sun or partial shade and thrive in dry, sandy, or chalky soils. Houndstongue is an ideal choice for coastal gardens or well-drained banks. It deeply dislikes heavy, waterlogged clay; if your soil is damp, consider growing in a raised area or adding plenty of grit to the planting site.

Ongoing Care:
Once established, this plant is exceptionally drought-tolerant and requires almost no intervention. If you wish to prevent the plant from self-seeding and spreading via its "sticky" seeds, simply cut the flower stems down to the base immediately after the flowers fade in July.

Houndstongue looks its best in a naturalistic or wild setting. Pair it with these available species from our collection:

• 🕊️ White Campion: The Contrast. The pure white flowers of the Campion provide a luminous backdrop that makes the sombre, dull maroon of the Houndstongue truly stand out. Both species thrive in similar dry, hedgerow-style conditions.
• 🐍 Viper's Bugloss: The Coastal Duo. If you have sandy or dry soil, grow these two together. The electric blue spikes of the Echium and the deep maroon-red of the Cynoglossum create a high-impact, bee-friendly display that looks spectacular on coastal banks.

Direct sow in autumn for the strongest plants, followed by dramatic maroon spikes the following early summer.