General
Annual species that is sometimes called Chinese Forget-Me-Nots or Hound's Tongue. Native to the Himalayas.
Latin
Cynoglossum amabile
Family: Boraginaceae
Difficulty
Easy
Season & Zone
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Zone: 2-10
Timing
Direct sow mid-winter (February on the coast) or start indoors late February to mid-March. Start 6-8 weeks before planting out. Direct sow again in autumn. Seeds will sprout in 5-10 days, particularly if you can maintain their optimal soil temperature of 18-24°C (65-75°F).
Starting
Sow seeds shallowly at 5mm (¼") deep, and thin or space to 20-30cm (8-12") apart. If starting indoors, keep seeds in total darkness until they sprout, and then provide bright light.
Growing
Ordinary, well-drained garden soil with a neutral to slightly acid pH range will work well. Weak plants result from rich soil. This species is well suited to xeriscaping. Deadhead to avoid self sowing.
