Small Bugloss (Lycopsis arvensis)

Small Bugloss

Lycopsis arvensis

Its tiny blue blooms cluster like scattered starlight. Annual herbaceous wildflower; common name: small bugloss.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, nutrient-poor soils
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water only when top 5 cm of soil is completely dry
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Temperature Hardy to light frost; thrives in cool to temperate growing conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Basal rosette of hairy, lanceolate leaves; stem leaves are smaller, alternate, and clasping
  • Flower: Tiny, funnel-shaped blue to violet blooms in coiled cymes
  • Stem: Erect, hairy, branching near the top
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Care Guide

Watering

Water sparingly during extended dry spells

Fertilization

No regular fertilization required; rich soils may reduce flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote foliage over blooms

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; lightly dust soil surface once every two months to support healthy growth
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to prevent unwanted self-seeding if desired
  • Remove faded foliage after flowering to tidy garden beds
  • No heavy pruning needed as it is a short-lived annual
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Pollinator-friendly wildflower for meadows and low-maintenance gardens