Viper's Bugloss Nonea (Nonea echioides)

Viper's Bugloss Nonea

Nonea echioides

Its fuzzy blooms carry soft blue charm, a low-growing meadow accent. Herbaceous annual; common name: viper's bugloss nonea.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun to partial shade; tolerates dry, exposed growing conditions
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts; performs best in cool to temperate summer temperatures
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Lanceolate, hairy gray-green foliage arranged alternately along stems
  • Flower: Tubular blue-purple blooms clustered in leaf axils with fuzzy calyxes
  • Stem: Erect, branched stems covered in fine, bristly hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Water moderately during active growth; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 2 weeks. Use only diluted, low-strength feed to avoid disrupting natural growth habits

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium content without overfertilizing
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to extend the flowering period
  • Remove yellowing foliage to maintain a neat, tidy appearance
  • Cut back entire plant after seed set to encourage self-seeding for next year
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity for cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Wildflower garden ornamental; supports pollinators including bees and butterflies