Common Names: Brunnera, False Forget-Me Not, Siberian Bugloss

Botanical Name: Brunnera macrophylla

Brunnera macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss, is a charming perennial that thrives in shady gardens. Its heart-shaped leaves and clusters of delicate blue flowers bring a touch of elegance and color to areas where many other plants struggle.

• Attractive Foliage: Large, heart-shaped leaves, often with striking variegation, provide year-round interest.
• Delicate Blooms: Small, blue forget-me-not-like flowers grace the plant in spring, adding a welcome touch of color to shady spots.
• Shade Tolerance: Thrives in partial to full shade, making it perfect for woodland gardens, shady borders, and areas beneath trees.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Brunnera requires minimal care. It is generally pest and disease resistant.
• Spreading Habit: Forms a slowly expanding clump, making it an excellent ground cover option for shady areas.
• Deer and Rabbit Resistant: The rough texture of the leaves deters these common garden pests.

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Light: Part shade to shade, with protection from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
• Moisture: Prefers consistently moist soil but tolerates some dryness once established.
• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 3-8.

Landscaping Uses

• Shade Gardens: Brunnera is a staple in shade gardens, providing color and texture where other plants may struggle.
• Woodland Gardens: Its natural look blends beautifully into woodland settings.
• Borders: Use it as an edging plant or to fill in gaps in shady borders.
• Ground Cover: Plant in masses to create a lush ground cover under trees or shrubs.
• Containers: Can be grown in containers for patios or balconies.

Cultivars to Consider

• 'Jack Frost': Features stunning silvery-white leaves with prominent green veins.
• 'Looking Glass': Displays large, silver leaves with a reflective sheen.
• 'Hadspen Cream': Offers variegated leaves with creamy yellow margins.

Brunnera macrophylla is a versatile and beautiful perennial that adds charm and elegance to any shady garden. Its low-maintenance nature and deer resistance make it a practical and rewarding choice for gardeners of all levels.

This exceptional cultivar of Siberian bugloss, also known as False Forget-Me-Not or Heartleaf Brunnera, captivates with its shimmering foliage that illuminates any shady corner of the landscape. While primarily grown for its foliage, the delicate blue flowers also offer a delightful charm.

A Hardy and Versatile Perennial

Hardy in zones 3 to 8, 'Jack Frost' forms a graceful, rounded mound reaching 1½ feet in height and width. Its clumps gradually spread through creeping rhizomes, eventually creating a dense ground cover. The heart-shaped leaves, rough-textured and slightly hairy, boast a unique frosted, silvery-white overlay contrasting beautifully with the dark green veins and margins. This striking pattern remains vibrant throughout the growing season, provided the plant receives adequate moisture.

Springtime Blooms and Design Possibilities

In mid-spring, 'Jack Frost' delights with hundreds of tiny, light blue flowers with yellow centers, reminiscent of forget-me-nots. These blooms, borne in airy sprays above the foliage, last for 3-4 weeks, adding a touch of ethereal beauty to the landscape.

This versatile perennial shines in various settings, from woodland gardens to formal beds, injecting dramatic texture into shady spots. It pairs beautifully with the fern Athyrium niponicum var. pictum 'Silver Falls' or other Japanese painted ferns, creating a captivating contrast of texture and leaf shape. It also harmonizes with astilbes, bleeding heart, Heucheras, and thrives near ponds or streams. Combining 'Jack Frost' with late-spring bulbs like daffodils results in a breathtaking spring spectacle. Its potential extends to ground covers, edging shady paths, or gracing borders.

Thriving in Shade and Ease of Care

'Jack Frost' flourishes in part shade, ideally with morning sun and afternoon shade, planted in moist, well-drained soil. While it prefers organic-rich soils, it also performs well in clay. Notably, it tolerates more sun than many other variegated cultivars.

This low-maintenance perennial requires minimal care beyond supplemental watering during dry spells. Mulching helps maintain soil moisture and may even eliminate the need for additional watering. 'Jack Frost' exhibits greater heat tolerance compared to other Brunnera varieties. Although not necessary, removing spent flower stalks enhances its appearance.

Maintenance and Propagation

Individual older leaves can be trimmed during the growing season to maintain the clump's visual appeal. It is best to remove old foliage in spring when new leaves emerge, rather than in the fall, as the leaves offer winter protection. Winter mulch is recommended but often unnecessary.

As a patented cultivar, unlicensed propagation for sale is prohibited. However, the fibrous-rooted plants can be divided in spring or fall. It is important to note that 'Jack Frost' will not grow true from seed.

Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' is a truly exceptional perennial, deserving of its recognition as the Perennial Plant of the Year. Its captivating foliage, delicate blooms, and adaptability to shade make it a must-have for any garden seeking year-round beauty and effortless elegance.

Brunnera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae. They are rhizomatous perennials, native to the woodlands of Eastern Europe and Northwest Asia. They have hairy leaves and sprays of blue flowers in spring. Numerous cultivars are available, which are valued as groundcover in dappled shade. The best-known species is Brunnera macrophylla, known as Siberian bugloss.

Brunneras are shade-loving plants that prefer moist, well-drained soil. They are relatively low-maintenance and deer-resistant. They can be propagated by division or seed.

Here are some of the different types of Brunnera:

• Brunnera macrophylla: This is the most common type of Brunnera. It has large, heart-shaped leaves that are green or variegated with silver. The flowers are blue and bloom in early to mid-spring.
• Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost': This cultivar has silver leaves with green veins. The flowers are blue and bloom in early to mid-spring.
• Brunnera macrophylla 'Diane': This cultivar has green leaves with a yellow margin. The flowers are blue and bloom in early to mid-spring.
• Brunnera macrophylla 'Alexander's Great': This cultivar has large, heart-shaped leaves that are green with a wide silver margin. The flowers are blue and bloom in early to mid-spring.
• Brunneras are a great choice for shade gardens. They are easy to care for and provide beautiful color and interest throughout the year.

Planting Brunnera is a fairly straightforward process, but there are a few key things to keep in mind for success:

Choosing the right spot:

• Light: Brunnera thrives in shady or partially shaded areas. Avoid planting in full sun, especially hot afternoon sun, as it can scorch the leaves.
• Soil: They prefer moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
• Spacing: Plant Brunnera 12-24 inches apart, depending on the variety and desired mature size.

Planting steps:

• Prepare the planting site: Clear the area of weeds and debris. If your soil is poor, mix in compost or aged manure to improve drainage and fertility.
• Dig a hole: Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root ball of your Brunnera plant.
• Place the plant: Gently remove the plant from its container and loosen any tightly bound roots. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
• Backfill and water: Fill the hole with soil and tamp it down gently to remove air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly.
• Mulch (optional): Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Additional tips:

• Water your Brunnera regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting and during dry spells.
• Deadhead spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms and prevent unwanted self-seeding.
• Cut back any brown or damaged leaves throughout the season.
• You can divide established Brunnera clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate the plants and create more.

By following these simple steps, you can successfully plant Brunnera and enjoy its beautiful foliage and charming blooms for years to come.

Brunnera, particularly Brunnera macrophylla, boasts a delightful variety of cultivars, each offering unique characteristics in terms of foliage color, size, and even flower hue. Here is a glimpse into some popular varieties:

Leaf Color Variations:

• Silver Stars: As the name suggests, this cultivar shines with shimmering silver leaves, boasting subtle green veining for contrast.
• Jack Frost: A classic choice, Jack Frost features captivating silvery leaves with prominent green veins, creating a frosty, wintery appeal.
• Looking Glass: True to its name, Looking Glass lives up to its reflective name with its incredibly silver leaves, adding a touch of elegance to the shade garden.
• Hadspen Cream: This cultivar flaunts large, chartreuse-green leaves edged with creamy white, making it a standout amongst its greener counterparts.
• Diane Gold: Vibrant chartreuse foliage defines Diane Gold, offering a sunny pop of color amidst the usual greens and silvers.

Leaf Pattern Variations:

• Alexander's Great: This majestic cultivar boasts enormous, heart-shaped leaves with a wide silver margin, making it a true showstopper.
• Sea Heart: If you seek a dynamic display, Sea Heart offers leaves that start olive green with silver tracery, maturing to lavender-purple, and blooming with white and blue flowers that transition to lavender-purple.
• Variegata: This classic cultivar presents green leaves adorned with irregular creamy-white variegation, adding a touch of whimsy to the shade.
• Herzblut: For a touch of drama, Herzblut features heart-shaped leaves with dark green centers and contrasting burgundy-red margins.

Flower Color Variations:

• Dawson's White: While most Brunnera boast blue flowers, Dawson's White is a unique exception, displaying pristine white blooms that complement its silver foliage beautifully.
• Silver Heart: This cultivar offers classic blue flowers that perfectly complement its silvery leaves, creating a timeless and elegant combination.

Remember, these are just a few examples, and the world of Brunnera cultivars is vast and ever-expanding. When choosing yours, consider the desired leaf color, pattern, size, and even flower hue to find the perfect fit for your garden's aesthetic and your personal preferences.

Caring for Brunnera in your garden is quite easy, as they are generally low-maintenance plants. Here is a quick guide to keep your Brunnera thriving:

Lighting:

Brunnera prefers shady or partially shaded areas. Avoid planting in full sun, especially hot afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.

Watering:

Water your Brunnera regularly, especially during the first few weeks after planting and during dry spells. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist but avoid overwatering.

As the plant matures, it becomes more drought-tolerant and may not require frequent watering except during extended dry periods.

Soil:

They prefer moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.

Mulching:

Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use organic mulch like shredded bark or compost.

Feeding:

Brunnera generally does not require heavy feeding. However, you can provide a light feeding of balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage healthy growth.

Deadheading:

Deadhead spent flower stalks to encourage more blooms and prevent unwanted self-seeding. Simply snip off the faded flowers with sharp pruners.

Pruning:

Cut back any brown or damaged leaves throughout the season to maintain the plant's appearance.

In late fall or early spring, you can also cut back the entire plant to ground level. This will encourage new growth in the spring.

Dividing:

You can divide established Brunnera clumps every 3-4 years in early spring or fall to rejuvenate the plants and create more. Simply dig up the clump, carefully separate the divisions, and replant them in new locations.

Pests and Diseases:

Brunnera is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to slugs and snails, especially in damp conditions. You can handpick these pests or use organic control methods like beer traps or diatomaceous earth.

By following these simple care tips, you can ensure your Brunnera thrives and adds its unique charm to your garden for many years to come.

Brunnera plants do attract pollinators! They offer several features that make them appealing to various pollinators, including:

Colorful flowers: Brunnera typically produces clusters of small, blue flowers in spring or early summer. While the individual blooms might be small, their clustered nature creates a visually attractive display that catches the attention of pollinators.

Nectar and pollen: The flowers of Brunnera contain nectar and pollen, which are valuable food sources for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The readily available nectar provides them with energy, while the pollen serves as a source of protein and fat for their young.

Open flower structure: The trumpet-shaped or bell-shaped flowers of Brunnera have an open structure, making it easy for pollinators to access the nectar and pollen inside. This accessibility further enhances their attractiveness to these beneficial insects.

Bloom time: Brunnera blooms in spring or early summer, coinciding with the peak activity period of many pollinators. This timing ensures there is a readily available food source when pollinators are most active and searching for sustenance.

Plant fragrance: While not as strongly scented as some other pollinator-attracting plants, some Brunnera cultivars, like 'Jack Frost', emit a subtle, sweet fragrance that can further entice pollinators.

Habitat for beneficial insects: The foliage of Brunnera provides shelter and habitat for beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which can help control pest populations in your garden. These beneficial insects often become prey for pollinators, creating an additional food source and further strengthening the connection between Brunnera and pollinator populations.

Therefore, including Brunnera in your garden can not only add beautiful foliage and blooms, but also contribute to a healthy and vibrant ecosystem by attracting and supporting valuable pollinators.

Brunnera are generally pretty trouble-free plants, but there are a few pests and diseases that can occasionally cause problems.

• Slugs and snails: These slimy creatures love to munch on the tender leaves of Brunnera. You can handpick them off at night or set traps to catch them. There are also several commercial slug and snail baits available.
• Aphids: These tiny sap-sucking insects can weaken Brunnera plants and stunt their growth. If you see aphids on your plants, you can blast them off with a strong jet of water or treat them with insecticidal soap.
• Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the roots of Brunnera plants to rot, eventually killing the plant. Root rot is most likely to occur in poorly drained soil. If you think your Brunnera has root rot, you will need to dig it up and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
• Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause Brunnera leaves to develop brown spots and wilt. Botrytis is most likely to occur in cool, damp conditions. If you see signs of Botrytis, remove the affected leaves, and improve air circulation around your plants.
• Fusarium: This fungal disease can cause Brunnera stems to wilt and turn brown. Fusarium is most likely to occur in hot, humid conditions. If you see signs of Fusarium, remove the affected stems and water your plants less frequently.
• Bacterial leaf spot: This bacterial disease can cause Brunnera leaves to develop small, brown spots. Bacterial leaf spot is most likely to occur in hot, humid conditions. If you see signs of bacterial leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and water your plants less frequently.

By following these tips, you can help keep your Brunnera plants healthy and pest-free.

Yes, you absolutely can use Brunnera in floral arrangements! In fact, it is a popular choice for florists and home gardeners alike. Here is why:

• Beautiful foliage: Brunnera has stunning foliage that comes in a variety of colors, from silver and green to chartreuse and deep purple. The leaves are also heart-shaped, which adds a touch of whimsy to arrangements.
• Long-lasting flowers: The delicate blue flowers of Brunnera may not be the star of the show, but they are definitely charming and long-lasting. They can add a touch of elegance and softness to arrangements.
• Versatility: Brunnera can be used in a variety of floral arrangements, from rustic to modern. It pairs well with a wide range of other flowers, including roses, lilies, hydrangeas, and tulips.

Here are some tips for using Brunnera in floral arrangements:

• Cut the stems early in the morning when the flowers are at their peak.
• Remove any lower leaves that will be submerged in water.
• Condition the stems in lukewarm water for a few hours before using them.
• Brunnera stems can be a bit soft, so be careful not to break them when arranging them.
• Use Brunnera as a filler flower or accent.

With its beautiful foliage and long-lasting flowers, Brunnera is a great addition to any floral arrangement.

Brunnera's invasiveness depends on several factors, including the specific variety, your local climate, and your gardening practices. While not generally considered highly invasive, it is essential to be aware of its potential to spread under certain conditions.

Why Brunnera might be considered invasive:

• Spreads through rhizomes: Brunnera spreads underground through rhizomes, which are root-like stems. In ideal conditions with ample moisture and loose soil, these rhizomes can travel and form new plants, potentially encroaching on neighboring plants.
• Self-seeds in some regions: In warmer climates, certain Brunnera varieties can produce viable seeds that germinate and spread the plant further.

Why Brunnera is often seen as non-invasive:

• Relatively slow spread: The rate of Brunnera's spread through rhizomes is generally slow and manageable. It is unlikely to become a nuisance in most gardens.
• Does not aggressively compete: Unlike some truly invasive plants, Brunnera does not typically outcompete and harm native vegetation.
• Easy to control: With proper monitoring and occasional division, you can easily keep Brunnera contained within your desired area.

Factors to consider:

• Variety: Some Brunnera varieties, like 'Jack Frost' and 'Diane's Gold,' are known to be more aggressive spreaders than others, like 'Alexander's Great.'
• Climate: Warmer climates with ample moisture can encourage faster spread through rhizomes and self-seeding.
• Gardening practices: Planting Brunnera in well-drained soil and dividing it every few years can help prevent excessive spread.

In conclusion:

• Brunnera generally is not a major invasive concern.
• Be mindful of its spreading potential, especially in warmer climates or with aggressive varieties.
• Proper planting and care can easily keep Brunnera under control.
• If you are concerned about invasiveness, opt for less aggressive varieties, and monitor their growth.

By understanding these factors and taking appropriate measures, you can enjoy the beauty of Brunnera in your garden without worrying about it becoming a problem.

The best time to divide Brunnera plants depends on your climate and personal preference, but there are two main options:

Early Spring (before new growth emerges):

• Pros: Cool soil temperatures and spring rains provide ideal conditions for root establishment, leading to faster recovery and better growth throughout the season.
• Cons: You might accidentally damage emerging shoots if they have not fully emerged yet.

Early Fall (after flowering and before the ground freezes):

• Pros: Plants have had a full season to grow and store energy, leading to better resilience during transplanting. Cooler temperatures and fall rains also aid in establishment.
• Cons: Plants may take longer to establish themselves before winter dormancy, especially in colder climates.

Ultimately, the best time for you depends on your specific situation:

• In mild climates: Either spring or fall is suitable. Choose spring if you prioritize faster initial growth or fall if you prefer established plants before winter.
• In colder climates: Fall is generally the safer option, as plants have more time to establish before the harsh winter arrives.
• For large clumps: Dividing in fall is often recommended, as the cooler temperatures and moist soil make it easier for larger sections to recover.

Here are some additional tips for dividing Brunnera:

• Water the plant thoroughly a few days before dividing.
• Use a sharp spade or fork to carefully lift the entire clump.
• Gently tease the clump apart into smaller sections, each with a good number of roots and healthy crowns.
• Remove any diseased or damaged roots.
• Replant the divisions in well-drained soil, spacing them according to their mature size.
• Water the newly planted divisions well and keep them moist until they are established.

By following these tips, you can successfully divide your Brunnera plants and enjoy their beautiful foliage and flowers for many years to come.