Green Alkanet and visitor

Green Alkanet - Pentaglottis sempervirens is a member of the Borage family. Like it's little cousins the Forget-me-nots, it can be a pest in a garden but is striking with its bright blue flowers. It is an introduced species that dislikes acid soil.

It has never been widely used medicinally other than as a mild diuretic and to sooth sore skin, but the roots have been used extensively to produce a red dye. The name Alkanet is said to come from al-?inn?, which is the Arabic word for henna.

I haven't a clue what the little fly is. If anyone knows, please, feel free to add the info.

Thank you all for the stars and the favourites on yesterdays Cowslips. The special effect was created by a Cocker Spaniel, running at breakneck speed between me and the Cowslip... If you have a dog that won't leave you in peace when you are taking a photo the effect can be recreated! :)

Another busy day. At least I haven't failed a write up again.