Paterson's curse, Blueweed, Salvation jane
Echium platagineum
Family: Boraginaceae
What it is like
A herb. It is hairy and branched. It grows 50 cm high. The leaves at the base are 3-12 cm long by 12-15 mm wide. The upper leaves on the stem are narrow. The flowers are deep blue.
It is considered a serious weed.
Where it is found
It is a Mediterranean plant. In Argentina it grows below 500 m above sea level.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Albania, Argentina, Asia, Australia, Balkans, Brazil, Britain, Bulgaria, Chile, Egypt, Europe, France, Greece, India, Italy, Lebanon, Libya, Mediterranean, Middle East, Morocco, New Zealand, North Africa, Pakistan, Portugal, Sicily, South America, Spain, Syria, Tasmania, Tunisia, Turkey, Türkiye, Uruguay
How it is used for food
The leaves are used in soup and stews. The oil needs to be refined. The flowers are sucked.
Edible parts
Leaves, - oil, caution, flowers - nectar
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Argamula, Chupamieles, Illes oufounas, Isan tour, Lapazza, Lingua di voi, Spinacio selvagge, Suzzamele, Viborera