Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’

Description

Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ is a striking perennial known for its tall stems and vivid blue flowers, which bloom from May to June. This plant is perfect for adding vibrant color to your garden borders and can grow up to 1 meter tall, with a spread of 60 cm. To help your Anchusa thrive, follow this comprehensive planting guide.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

Spring Planting
The ideal time to plant Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ is in early spring, once the risk of frost has passed. This allows the roots to establish before the flowering season, ensuring strong growth and plentiful blooms.

Autumn Planting
Alternatively, you can plant your Anchusa in early autumn. This gives the plant time to settle and develop a strong root system before winter dormancy, resulting in healthier growth in the following spring.

Site Selection

Sunlight
Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ thrives in full sun. Select a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to encourage robust growth and vibrant flower production.

Soil
This plant prefers well-drained soil, as Anchusa does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Enhance soil drainage by incorporating compost or organic matter to create a fertile environment for the plant’s roots to grow.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Soil
   Loosen the soil to a depth of 12 inches and mix in organic matter such as compost to improve drainage and fertility. Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ benefits from nutrient-rich soil for optimal growth.
2. Sow the Seeds or Plant
   If growing from seeds, scatter Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ seeds thinly over the prepared soil and cover lightly. For potted plants, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and place the plant in the hole with the root ball level to the surrounding soil. Gently firm the soil around the base.
3. Watering After Planting
   Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and encourage root establishment. Anchusa prefers moist, well-drained soil but should not be overwatered.

Watering Requirements

During Growth
Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ requires moderate watering during the growing season. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry slightly between sessions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root problems.

During Dormancy
Reduce watering in autumn and winter when your Anchusa is dormant. Keep the soil just moist enough to prevent it from drying out completely, but avoid excess moisture.

Feeding and Fertilising

Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ benefits from feeding during its growing season. Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to give the plant a strong start, promoting lush growth and abundant flowers. A second light feeding in mid-summer can help sustain the plant through the flowering season.

Pruning and Maintenance

Deadheading
To encourage continuous blooming, regularly deadhead Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ by removing spent flowers. This will help the plant direct its energy into producing more blooms rather than seeds.

Cutting Back
At the end of the flowering season, cut back your Anchusa to ground level. This helps prepare the plant for winter dormancy and encourages stronger growth in the next season.

Mulching

Apply mulch around the base of the plant in early spring to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic mulch such as compost or bark chips works well. In colder climates, a winter mulch can protect the roots from freezing temperatures and prevent frost heaving.

Supporting the Plant

Due to its height, Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ may benefit from staking, especially in exposed locations with strong winds. Use gentle plant supports to prevent the tall flower stems from bending or breaking.

Final Tips

Anchusa azurea ‘Loddon Royalist’ is a low-maintenance perennial that brings a striking blue hue to any garden. By planting it in a sunny spot with well-drained soil and following these care tips, you’ll enjoy beautiful blooms from late spring to early summer. This Anchusa is also excellent for attracting pollinators, making it a great addition to eco-friendly gardens.

 

RHS Details

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