Growing
- Forest layer: Herbaceous.
- Growth habit & lifespan: Fast-growing annual, self-seeds freely, borderline weedy inside a garden bed if left unchecked.
- Size: 0.3-0.9m.
- Site preference: Full sun to part shade, wide soil tolerance.
- Water needs / drought tolerance: Moderate.
- Fruiting / flowering season: Distinctive bright blue star-shaped flowers, prolific, close to year-round in mild climates.
- Propagation: Seed, self-seeds readily.
- Harvesting technique: Edible flowers and young leaves, mild cucumber flavour.
Permaculture Function
- Permaculture functions: A genuine dynamic accumulator, drawing minerals up into its leaves; excellent bee and pollinator plant; a classic companion for strawberries and tomatoes; self-seeds to fill gaps in a guild without being planted deliberately each season.
- Wildlife value: Major bee forage.
- Edibility / medicinal use: Yes, edible flowers and leaves, with a long history of medicinal use.
- Companion notes: A strong, low-effort addition to any fruit tree guild or vegetable bed — chop-and-drop mulch material as well as a companion plant.
Safety & Control
- Toxicity: Contains trace pyrrolizidine alkaloids, best used in moderation, not a concern at normal culinary quantities.
- Control method: Not applicable, retain — let it self-seed and move through the guild rather than fighting the spread.