or Alkanet, in botany, a genus of the pentandria monogynia clas. The corolla is shaped like a tunnel. There are eight species of the anchusa; viz. 1. The officinalis, a native of France and the warmer parts of Europe. The root of the officinalis is not now used in medicine; its principal use is for colouring oils, unguents, plasters, &c. 2. The angustifolia, a native of Italy and Germany. 3. The undulata, a native of Spain. 4. The orientalis, a native of the E. Indies. 5. The virginiana, a native of Virginia. 6. The lanata, a native of Algiers. 7. The tectoria, a native of Montpelier. 8. The sempervirens, or ever-green alkanet, a native of Britain and Spain.