Alkanet (Alkanna tinctoria)

Family: Boraginaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Alkanna tinctoria is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower in June. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Used as a vegetable. No further details are given. A red dye obtained from the roots is used as a food colouring. — Used as a vegetable.; No further details are given.; A red dye obtained from the roots is used as a food colouring.

Habitat & North American Range

Maritime sands, uncultivated ground, calcareous soils and pine forests. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)