Pacific Hound’s Tongue

This perennial herb produces clusters of purple buds that open into blue with a white center on a tall, erect, showy stem rising from the center of clustered leaves at its base. When at its height of bloom, it is a showstopper when one happens upon it.

It prefers dappled, shady areas in woodlands on the forest floor and living with California oaks. It is especially beneficial in a pollinator garden as it can begin blooming in winter and extend into summer. It is deer resistant. Clusters of reseeding Hounds Tongue seem most happy on shady inclines.

The common name comes from its leaf shape, similar to a dog’s tongue. Pacific Hound’s Tongue is a member of the Borage family.