Field Gromwell, Corn gromwell
Buglossoides arvensis

Family: Boraginaceae

What it is like

Buglossoides arvensis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.5

Where it is found

Arable fields, rough ground and open grassy places.

Central and southern Europe, including Britain, through Asia to the Himalayas.

Conservation Status: This taxon has not yet been assessed.

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

The European Union has granted the refined oil of the seed of Buglossoides arvensis novel food status (a type of food that does not have a significant history of consumption or is produced by a method that has not previously been used for food) and some farmers are growing it.

Medicine

Rating: 1

An infusion of the leaves is used as a diuretic.

Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.

Other

Rating: 0

How it is grown

207189 Prefers a moderately fertile well-drained soil.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ. Germination should take place within a few weeks.

Best place to grow: Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Annual

Hardiness: 6-10

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

This plant may be weedy or invasive. Some evidence in USA: Kentucky. Illinois. Nebraska. Tennessee. Wyoming.

Its other names

Local names

USA: Corn Gromwell. Puccoon. Denmark: Ager-stenfr. Poland: Nawrot polny. Italiano: Erba perla minore dei campi. France French name: Grémil des champs. Germany German name: Acker-Steinsame. Brazil Brazilian name: aljofareira. Sweden Swedish name: sminkrot.

Synonyms

Aegonychon arvense (L.) Gray; Buglossoides arvensis f. cyanea R.Fern; Lithospermum arvense L; Margar