Will my Viper's bugloss bloom in its first year?

Usually no. It is a biennial, meaning it grows leaves the first year and flowers the second.

Does fertilizer help it bloom?

Not really. This plant prefers poor, rocky soil and too much fertilizer can actually stop it from flowering.

Why is my Viper's bugloss not flowering? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Check if the plant is in its first or second year of growth.
Observe how many hours of direct sunlight the plant receives daily.
Ensure the plant is not crowded by other taller plants.

Likely causes

Insufficient sunlight
Most likely
How to tell: The plant looks stretched out and pale rather than compact and dark green.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot that gets at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun daily. Viper's bugloss will not bloom well in partial shade.
Young age
Most likely
How to tell: The plant is healthy but has not yet formed a tall flower spike.
What to do: Be patient and wait for the second year. The plant spends its first year building a strong root system and leaf base.

Other plants that won't flower

Find out what's wrong with your viper's bugloss

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry only if your plant is in its second year and still shows no signs of a flower stalk by midsummer.

Stopping it coming back

Plant in a location with full, unobstructed sun to encourage healthy development.

Viper's bugloss: not flowering? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your viper's bugloss and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will my Viper's bugloss bloom in its first year?: Usually no. It is a biennial, meaning it grows leaves the first year and flowers the second.
Does fertilizer help it bloom?: Not really. This plant prefers poor, rocky soil and too much fertilizer can actually stop it from flowering.

Why is my Viper's bugloss not flowering?