Βουδόγλωσσον, Μόγλωσσον, Γαλάζια Άγχουσα
Etymology of Anchusa azurea: The genus name Anchusa comes from Ancient Greek "ἄγχουσα" [anchusa]. Greek grammarian Hesychius of Alexandria explained around 6th-5th century B.C. that it was a "ῥίζα ᾗ φυκοῦνται γύναια", meaning "a root with which women use to beautify themselves", as Anchusa's root was used for cosmetic purposes. Hesychius used the term "ἔγχουσα" [enchusa]. He also explained that the verb "ἀγχουσίζομαι" [anchusizome] meant "utilize anchusa, dye", hence "anchusa" meant "a dye". Latin "azurea" means "sky-blue", referring to the colour of its flowers.
There are at least five Anchusa species in Cyprus.
Anchusa azurea, also called "Anchusa italica", is a quite common plant in Cyprus. It is encountered all around the island between 0-1375 metres. It grows mostly on roadsides, cultivated and uncultivated fields. Its flowering period is between March and May.
