Contents
Description
Brunnera Macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss or false forget-me-not, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. The plant is native to the Caucasus Mountains and surrounding areas of Eastern Europe. Brunnera Macrophylla is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and delicate blue flowers that bloom in the spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Brunnera |
Appearance
Brunnera Macrophylla has large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. The leaves are dark green with prominent veins and have a slightly hairy texture. In the spring, the plant produces clusters of small, delicate blue flowers that resemble forget-me-nots. The flowers are held above the foliage on tall, wiry stems that can reach up to 18 inches in height. Brunnera Macrophylla is a clump-forming plant that can grow up to 2 feet wide.
Care Guide
Water
Brunnera Macrophylla prefers consistently moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize Brunnera Macrophylla in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the package for application rates.
Soil
Brunnera Macrophylla prefers well-draining, humus-rich soil. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Brunnera Macrophylla prefers partial shade to full shade. Avoid planting the plant in direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves.
Hardiness Zones
Brunnera Macrophylla is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Brunnera Macrophylla is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to slug damage. Use slug bait or traps to control slug populations.
Habitat
Brunnera Macrophylla is native to the Caucasus Mountains and surrounding areas of Eastern Europe. The plant grows in shaded areas of woodland, meadows, and along stream banks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Brunnera Macrophylla?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Q: Does Brunnera Macrophylla prefer sun or shade?
A: Brunnera Macrophylla prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Brunnera Macrophylla?
A: Fertilize Brunnera Macrophylla in the spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Brunnera Macrophylla?
A: Brunnera Macrophylla is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’
- Brunnera macrophylla ‘Looking Glass’
- Brunnera macrophylla ‘Variegata’
- Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sea Heart’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Brunnera macrophylla. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b414
- RHS. (n.d.). Brunnera macrophylla. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/6610/Brunnera-macrophylla/Details
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Brunnera macrophylla (Siberian Bugloss). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/brunnera-macrophylla-siberian-bugloss
