Small-flowered bugloss (Echium parviflorum, Methodus: 423 (1794))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: Moench

Bibliography: Methodus: 423 (1794)

Year: 1794

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Echium

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Medit.

Description

The Small-flowered bugloss, scientifically identified as Echium parviflorum, is a plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family. This species was first described by Moench in his work Methodus published in 1794.

Echium parviflorum, commonly known for its understated beauty, thrives predominantly in Mediterranean climates. This plant typically flourishes in areas characterized by dry, sandy soils and full sunlight, which are conditions reflective of its native Mediterranean habitat.

The distinctive small flowers of the Small-flowered bugloss are a key feature, offering a splash of subtle color to the often arid landscapes where this plant is found. These flowers are usually a vivid blue, although variations can occur depending on specific growing conditions and geographical location.

The Small-flowered bugloss also exhibits the typical hairy foliage associated with many members of the Boraginaceae family. This trait not only gives the plant a slightly rough texture but also plays a significant role in reducing water loss, allowing Echium parviflorum to survive in hot and dry environments.

Ecologically, Echium parviflorum serves as an important source of nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its blooming period aligns with the times when these insects are most active, helping to ensure the ongoing health of local ecosystems by supporting pollination activities.

Finally, this species, although not widely cultivated, is sometimes found in wildflower mixes that aim to enhance biodiversity and support pollinator populations. Its resilience and ability to thrive in less-than-ideal conditions make it a valuable plant for naturalizing efforts in similar climates around the world.

Common Names

Deu: kleinblütiger natternkopf
Eng: small-flowered bugloss
En: Small-flowered Bugloss, Italian Vipersbugloss, Pale Bugloss
Fr: Vipérine d’Italie, Échium d’Italie
De: Kleinblütiger Natternkopf, Hoher Natternkopf, Italienischer Natterkopf
It: Viperina parviflora, Viperina maggiore

Synonyms

• Echium creticum (Lindl.)
• Echium prostratum (Ten.)
• Echium calycinum (Viv.)
• Echium parviflorum var. vivianii (Rouy)
• Echium ovatum (Poir.)

Distribution

• Albania (native)
• Algeria (native)
• Baleares (native)
• Corse (native)
• East Aegean Is. (native)
• France (native)
• Greece (native)
• Kriti (native)
• Lebanon-Syria (native)
• Libya (native)
• Morocco (native)
• Sardegna (native)
• Sicilia (native)
• Spain (native)
• Tunisia (native)
• Turkey (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 23, 2022 by Audrey Falaize (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2021 by Sergio costantini (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2021 by Sergio costantini (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 1, 2012 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 5, 2021 by Sergio costantini (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Nov 16, 2022 by Romyosotis (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 16, 2022 by Romyosotis (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 1, 2012 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 17, 2021 by Maïté RM (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Jun 1, 2012 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 12, 2021 by Danièle Broudeur (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 1, 2012 by Martin Bishop (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 1, 2016 by Tela Botanica − Patrick LEBOULENGER (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Aug 27, 2022 by Jean Burgun (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:115817-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7477753)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Echium parviflorum Moench)

Specifications

Growth