A small, perennial herb with a basal rosette of leaves and soft, erect stems. The leaves are velvety, toothed and decrease in size towards the flowers spikes. The flowers are usually deep blue or purple but pink and white forms are also known. They are around 15mm long, somewhat tubular in shape and have a short upper lip and a long, spreading lower lip. Flowers are seen mainly in spring and summer. Fruit dry and indehiscent. Seeds: Four seeds per fruit. Egg shaped, 2.5 x 1.5 mm in size, with dimpled/patterned seed coat.

Plants For A Future

The leaves are used as a salve for wounds and also in the treatment of boils and sores.