Adelinia grande, commonly known as Pacific hound’s tongue, is a perennial herb native to the coastal forests, shaded woodlands, and chaparral of western North America, from British Columbia to California. It typically grows with an erect stem reaching up to 35 inches tall. This plant is characterized by its bright blue flowers with white centers that bloom in early spring, providing a showy display. The foliage consists of large, oval basal leaves that are green and somewhat hairy. Pacific hound’s tongue is valued for its striking flowers and its use in shaded garden areas or naturalized woodland settings.

In cultivation, Pacific hound’s tongue is appreciated for its early spring flowers and its ability to thrive in part shade to full shade conditions. It prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter and requires moderate water, making it suitable for gardens that aim to conserve water. While not commonly used, it has historical medicinal uses by Native Americans who utilized it to treat burns and stomach aches. Gardeners should be aware that it may be susceptible to rust and fungal diseases in overly moist conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0