Identification and Reproduction

Identification:

• Common bugloss is a deep-rooted perennial that grows up to 0.6 m tall. 
• In its first year it forms a rosette of basal leaves, narrow and pointed. In the second year it will begin to grow upright and flower.  

• Stems are angular, hairy and will be multi-stemmed with maturity. 

• Leaves are alternate, succulent and hairy. When found on the lower stem they are lance-like, decreasing in size moving up the stem. 
• It is most obvious for its blue to purple flowers with white centers.
• Flowers are found at the end of stalks and will uncoil like a fiddleneck and will straighten out as the bud opens. Depending on site conditions flowers can uncoil anytime between May through July. 

Reproduction: 

• This plant has a long taproot and can reshoot from any root fragments. 
• Each flower will produce 4 small nutlet-like seeds, resulting in nearly 900 seeds per plant annually. 

Habitat & Ecology

• It invades, grasslands roadsides, pastures and warm exposed areas. 
• It is shade intolerant, but adapted to various soil types ranging from sandy to clay-heavy soils. 
• This invader prefers dry, fertile and well-draining soils. 
• Currently common bugloss has been reported in south-central BC (Rutland and Osoyoos) and Vancouver Island. 

Impacts

Social: 

• This plant invades pasture, hay lands, alfalfa fields and rangelands. 
• Its presence reduces yield returns and the crop potential. 
• When the succulent leaves drop they start to mold, spoiling the alfalfa hay. 

Management

Prevention is a high priority for this plant. 

• Ensure that seeds are not carried on clothing, pets, equipment or vehicles off infested site. 
• Regularly monitor croplands for common bugloss.
• If plant is observed ensure that new infestations are removed and disposed of properly. 

Mechanical/Manual Control: 

• Eradication can occur through cutting or mowing prior to seed production. 
• For some infestations it may be beneficial to dig up the taproot. 
• Since it has a deep taproot it is crucial to remove the entire root mass to prevent re-establishment.

Resources

Download the Okanagan Invasive Species Online resource on Common Bugloss here. 

Download A Guide to Weeds in British Columbia for Common Bugloss here.

E-flora BC is a good resource to help identify common bugloss. 

Header photo (Thomas Dürbye)