Brunnera macrophylla |
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Photo Courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc.
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| | Common Name: Brunnera-Heartleaf
Common Name (Alternative): Siberian Bugloss |
Though many new varieties of Brunnera have become available in recent years, this straight species is still one of the best available. It is a vigorous grower, quickly spreading to form mounds of green, heart-shaped leaves. From mid to late spring, lovely baby blue, forget-me-not type flowers are produced in panicles just above the foliage. A large woodland planting of Brunnera is breathtaking. It can also be grown in containers and makes a wonderful cut flower for spring bouquets.
Origin: Not Native to North America
Characteristics:
Height:
12-18 Inches
Spread:
15-18 Inches
Flower Color:
Blue shades
Foliage Color:
Green shades
Sun or Shade?:
Part shade (4-6 hrs. direct sun)
Full shade (< 4 hrs. direct sun)
Wet or dry?:
Average water needs
Consistent water needs
Need critter resistant plants?:
Deer resistant
How fast should it grow?:
Rapid
When should it bloom?:
Mid-spring
Late spring
How's your soil?:
Average Soil
Fertile Soil
Sweet or Sour Soil?:
Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0)
Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)
What's your garden style?:
Container/Patio
Woodland/Shade
Rock Garden
Eclectic
Brunnera is a woodland plant that should be grown in full shade and consistently moist soil in southern regions. In the north, morning sun is acceptable as long as the soil remains moist. They will grow the fastest and strongest in rich soil.
Little care is needed once Brunnera is established. Cut back the old foliage in the spring rather than in the fall; it will help to protect the crown during the winter. A winter mulch is also recommended.
Though Brunnera tends to self-seed, the resulting seedlings are easy to pull out from unwanted areas or to replant elsewhere in the garden. It may also be propagated by division in the spring.