Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Purple Viper's-bugloss |
| Also Known As | Paterson's Curse |
| Scientific Name | Echium plantagineum |
| MainColor | Purple |
| PlantType |  Herb |
| Distribution |  Native |
| Season Found | June (Jun - Aug) |
| ImageUrl | Echium-002 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location Found | St Albans |
| Country Found | UK |
| Last Updated | 03 September 2026 |
| Photo Quality | B |
Flower Details
Description
A fast-growing annual or biennial with tall, branching stems covered in bristly hairs and vibrant purple-blue flowers. Popular with pollinators, especially bees, but considered a serious weed in some countries due to its rapid spread.
Distribution
Native to the Mediterranean region. Occasionally cultivated in the UK as an ornamental but sometimes naturalised, particularly in coastal areas.
Medicinal/Other Uses
Historically used in folk remedies, but not common in modern herbal medicine.
Edibility
Not edible.
Human Toxicity
Mildly_Toxic
Contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are toxic to humans, livestock, and pets if consumed in significant quantities. Can also cause skin irritation.
Pet Toxicity
Highly toxic – can cause liver damage in dogs, cats, and livestock if ingested.
Active Compounds
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids, phenolic acids.
Quality Issue
Confused vegitation