[1] This is a coarsely hairy annual herb which may reach half a meter in height.

Leaves are very bristly and warty-looking, which differentiates it from similar species like Pentaglottis sempervirens and Myosotis arvensis.

[2] Anchusa arvensis is found in arable field margins, sandy heaths, disturbed ground.

[3] In the UK it is a declining species with patchy distribution,[4] however conservation status as of 2005 is least concern.

[5][citation needed] Anchusa arvensis flowers April to September in the UK.