Description
Anchusa capensis is a drought hardy annual or bi-annual that grows vigorously, is upright, and has bright green, rough leaves and stems. It has a fairly weedy appearance.
The stems of brilliant blue flowers are borne throughout Spring and Summer and into Autumn. Each little blue flower is beautiful when looked at closely. They have a white feathery centre (these are actually scales that protect the reproductive parts of the flower). A host of pollinating insect species, including butterflies are attracted to the flowers.
Plant the Cape Forget-me-not in amongst Namaqualand Daisies, or where it can contrast beautifully with yellow, pink or white flowered plant species. It has been recorded as a useful plant in traditional medicine, as well as a dye being made from the flowers. The leaves are also eaten as as a type of "spinach" by the Sesotho people.
A very easy plant to grow. Plant in full sun, in open ground, where it will seed itself readily. It can get a bit rampant and scraggly after the growing season, so needs cutting back. Plant in well drained soil.
Size: to 50cm
Uses
Edible: Eaten as a type of spinach by the Sesotho people
Dye: A dye can be made from the flowers
Landscaping: Beautiful bright blue flowers excellent addition to flowering meadow garden.
Distribution
Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and into Namibia and Lesotho
Habitat:Disturbed areas, Sandy slopes