Blue Houndstongue
Cynoglossum grande (syn. Adelinia grandis)
Blue houndstongue is a graceful western North American native perennial, bearing clusters of vivid forget-me-not-blue flowers with white centers above large, lush basal leaves in early spring — a charming shade-tolerant woodland wildflower that goes dormant by midsummer.
Boraginaceae (Borage family)
Early to mid-spring (February–May); plant goes fully summer-dormant by midsummer
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: alstroemerias and tithonias also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
In the language of flowers, houndstongue has traditionally been associated with faithful, devoted love — a meaning shared with its close relatives the forget-me-nots. The genus name Cynoglossum literally means "dog's tongue" in Greek, a reference to the soft, tongue-shaped leaves, and the plant was once given as a folk remedy for dog bites. Blue houndstongue's stunning cerulean-blue flowers — unusually vivid for a shade plant — have made it a beloved gem in California native plant gardening, where truly blue flowering plants for dry shade are exceptionally rare.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial to full shade; one of the best blue-flowering plants for dry shade in western gardens
Water
Moderate during growing season; drought-tolerant once dormant in summer; do not overwater in summer
Soil
Well-drained, Loamy, Sandy loam, Humus-rich, Fertile to average
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in well-drained soil in partial to full shade — excellent for the challenging dry shade under oak trees
Water moderately in spring during active growth; reduce or stop watering once the plant goes dormant in summer
Allow the plant to self-seed freely for naturalized colonies under trees
Leaves and stems are rough and hairy — handle with gloves if skin is sensitive
Companion planting with spring bulbs works beautifully, as both go dormant by summer
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Dry shade gardens under trees and shrubs
- California and Pacific Northwest native plant gardens
- Woodland understory planting
- Spring-season color in shaded borders
- Companion planting with ferns, trilliums, and California poppies
Traditional Uses
- The related common houndstongue (Cynoglossum officinale) contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are toxic to the liver in large amounts; Cynoglossum grande (blue houndstongue) likely contains similar compounds and should not be consumed internally
- No established safe medicinal use for blue houndstongue; avoid internal use
- Historically the genus Cynoglossum was used in folk medicine as a topical preparation for wounds and dog bites — the source of its name ("kyon" = dog, "glossa" = tongue in Greek)
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Houndstongue
What does blue houndstongue symbolize?
Blue houndstongue symbolizes faithful devotion and loyal love, a meaning it shares with its relatives the forget-me-nots. Its vivid blue color in the shaded woodland understory carries connotations of steadfast affection that blooms even in obscurity.
Why is it called houndstongue?
The name comes from the Greek words for "dog's tongue" (kynos + glossa), referring to the long, soft, slightly rough leaves that were said to resemble a dog's tongue. Historically, the plant was also applied as a poultice to treat dog bites in folk medicine.
Is blue houndstongue the same as common houndstongue?
No. Blue houndstongue (Cynoglossum grande / Adelinia grandis) is a native western North American perennial with vivid blue flowers, valued in gardens. Common houndstongue (Cynoglossum officinale) is a European introduction that is invasive in parts of North America and has dull reddish-purple flowers. The two are related but distinct species with very different garden profiles.
When does blue houndstongue bloom and go dormant?
Blue houndstongue blooms from late winter through spring (February–May in its native range), then goes fully summer-dormant by July. This makes it an ideal companion for other spring ephemerals and bulbs that share the same cycle, leaving space for summer-dormant neighbors.
Is blue houndstongue good for dry shade?
Yes — blue houndstongue is one of the best native blue-flowering plants available for dry shade in Pacific Coast gardens. It thrives under the dry, shaded canopy of California live oaks and foothill woodland trees, where very few plants with such vivid blue flowers can grow.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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