Pentaglottis sempervirens aka Green Alkanet

Pentaglottis sempervirens, commonly known as the green alkanet, evergreen bugloss, or alkanet, is a bristly, tap-rooted perennial plant native to southwestern Europe, specifically northwest Iberia and France. It is the sole species in the monotypic genus Pentaglottis in the family Boraginaceae. Growing up to 60 cm (24") to 90 cm (36") tall, this plant thrives in damp or shaded areas, frequently found near buildings. With its brilliant blue flowers and oval, pointed leaves that remain green throughout the winter, the green alkanet adds vibrancy to its surroundings. However, it struggles to thrive in acidic soil, favoring calcicolous conditions. It is worth noting that "alkanet" is also used to refer to dyer's bugloss and common bugloss. In the British Isles, the green alkanet is an introduced species. Its name derives from Middle English, rooted in Old Spanish and Medieval Latin, ultimately originating from Arabic meaning "henna". The genus name, Pentaglottis, derives from Greek, signifying "five tongues", while the species name, sempervirens, comes from Latin, meaning "always alive" or "evergreen". This plant blooms in spring and early summer, featuring stamens concealed within narrow flower-tubes that culminate in a white eye at the center of each blue flower. Its upright stems carry smaller leaves, while a basal rosette consists of pointed, oval leaves measuring up to 40 cm long. Overall, the green alkanet is a striking and hardy perennial that brings beauty to its environment.