The Italian and botanical name, Echium, derives from the Greek ekis="vipera"
(viper) reminding that the ancient herbalists thought the main characteristic
of this plant, which has uncommon blue flowers.
Use It means that this plant was considered a good remedy against
viper's bites. It is possible to find it in uncultivated meadows at
the beginning of summer and it is quite easy to recognise it because
of its stems, hairy leaves and dark blue flowers.
Picture and text of Tebaldo Lorini Translated by Gianna Toni