Trachelium caeruleum aka Throatwort

Trachelium caeruleum, commonly known as blue throatwort, is a flowering plant in the family Campanulaceae. Native to the Mediterranean region, including Algeria, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, and Sicily, it has also been naturalized in areas such as New Zealand, the Azores, and parts of mainland Europe. This woody-based erect herbaceous perennial grows up to 120 cm tall and 30 cm wide, with oval leaves and dense cushions of violet-purple flowers that bloom in summer. Its specific epithet, caeruleum, refers to its dark blue color. While it is typically grown as a half-hardy annual for summer bedding schemes or planters in temperate climates, it is an erect perennial that can reach up to 90 cm in height. The lance-shaped leaves and small, slightly fragrant violet-blue flowers form domed clusters up to 15 cm across. Trachelium caeruleum is a versatile plant that can thrive in Mediterranean, subtropical, or temperate climates, particularly in hardiness zones 9-11. Its green leaves may have a slight purple hue and feature serrated margins. This drought-tolerant plant is not only ornamental but also attracts pollinators. Additionally, there are various cultivars available, offering a range of flower colors, including white, red, pink, and dark purple. It has even been recognized with the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.