Pacific Hound's Tongue
Cynoglossum grande
Family: Boraginaceae
What it is like
Cynoglossum grande is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. 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): 0.8
Where it is found
Woods.
Western N. America - British Columbia to California.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Root - cooked.
Root: includes bulbs, corms, tubers, rhizomes etc.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The grated root has been used as a dressing on inflamed burns and scalds. The root has been used in the treatment of stomach aches and venereal diseases.
Poultice: A moist, usually warm or hot, mass of plant material applied to the skin in the treatment of burns etc.
Stomachic: Aids and improves the action of the stomach.
VD: Used in the treatment of venereal disease
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Prefers a deep fertile well-drained but moisture retentive soil. Succeeds in well-drained ordinary garden soil. Tolerates light dappled shade. This species is not hardy in the colder areas of the country, it tolerates temperatures down to between -5 and -10°c.
Propagating it: Seed - sow autumn, late winter or spring in a greenhouse. The seed usually germinates within 1 - 3 weeks at 20°c. Plant out in mid spring or in the autumn. The seed is best sown in situ according to another report.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: 7-10
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: Semi-shade, no shade
Moisture: Moist