Kaukasisch vergeet-mij-nietje

Brunnera macrophylla

Engels: Siberian Bugloss

perennialBoraginaceae

Kaukasisch vergeet-mij-nietje (Brunnera macrophylla) is a perennial from the Boraginaceae family that grows up to 50cm tall. This plant thrives in partial shade to shade and requires low maintenance. Blooms in spring and late spring with blue flowers and attracts bees.

Hoogte

30–50 cm

Breedte

40–60 cm

Zonligging

partial shade, full shade

Waterbehoefte

moderate

Grondsoort

loam, clay soil

Onderhoud

low maintenance

Bloeitijd

spring, late spring

Bloemkleuren

blue

Ecologische waarde

Trekt bijen aan

Verzorgingskalender

Taak	Jan	Feb	Mrt	Apr	Mei	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Okt	Nov	Dec
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Care tips

Planting

Siberian bugloss thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens, shady borders, or beneath deciduous trees. It tolerates a range of soils but performs best in moisture-retentive loam or clay. Avoid hot, dry spots and full sun, which can scorch the large, heart-shaped leaves and stress the plant. Plant in March, April, or May for spring establishment, or in September and October for autumn planting. Both windows work well, though autumn planting allows roots to settle before winter. Prepare the soil by digging in well-rotted compost or leaf mould to improve structure and moisture retention, especially if your soil is light or sandy. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball and set the plant at the same depth it was growing in its pot. Space plants 45 cm apart to allow for their mature spread of 40–60 cm. Firm the soil gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets, then water thoroughly to settle the plant in. After planting, apply a 5 cm layer of organic mulch such as composted bark or leaf mould around the base, keeping it clear of the crown to prevent rot. This helps retain moisture and suppresses weeds, both important for establishing young plants. Water regularly during the first growing season, especially in dry spells, until the root system is well developed. Siberian bugloss is hardy to zone 3a, so winter protection is unnecessary in temperate Europe. Once established, it forms attractive ground cover with clusters of forget-me-not-like blue flowers in spring and striking foliage through summer.

Pruning

Siberian bugloss requires very little pruning, which is part of its appeal as a low-maintenance perennial. The main pruning windows are March and November, but the tasks are light and straightforward. In November, after the first frosts have blackened the foliage, cut back the old leaves to ground level. This tidies the plant for winter and removes any tatty or slug-damaged foliage that can harbour pests and diseases over the dormant months. Use secateurs or garden shears and clear away the debris to keep the border clean. If your garden is particularly tidy or you prefer a neater winter appearance, this autumn cut-back is worthwhile. However, if you garden more informally, you can leave the foliage in place to provide some shelter for overwintering insects and tidy up in early spring instead. In March, before new growth emerges strongly, remove any remaining dead or damaged leaves if you didn't cut back in autumn. This is also the time to check for any winter damage and clear away old stems. If the plant has self-seeded and you don't want seedlings spreading, remove spent flower stems before seed dispersal, though many gardeners appreciate the gentle self-sowing habit. Siberian bugloss doesn't require deadheading to prolong flowering, and the blue spring blooms fade naturally without detracting from the plant's appearance. The real ornamental value lies in the bold, heart-shaped leaves that remain attractive all season. Focus your efforts on removing tired foliage rather than fussing with flowers, and your brunnera will reward you with healthy, lush growth year after year.

Maintenance

Siberian bugloss is a low-maintenance perennial once established, but consistent moisture is key to keeping the foliage looking fresh. Water regularly during dry spells, especially in late spring and summer when the large leaves can wilt if the soil dries out. Plants in shadier spots with heavier clay or loam soil will need less frequent watering than those in brighter positions or lighter soils. In autumn and winter, natural rainfall is usually sufficient. Feed in March or April as new growth begins. Apply a balanced granular fertiliser such as blood, fish, and bone or a general-purpose feed around the base of the plant, then water in well. Alternatively, top-dress with a 3–5 cm layer of well-rotted compost or leaf mould, which feeds the soil and helps retain moisture. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds later in the season, as these encourage soft growth vulnerable to slugs. Speaking of slugs, they are the main pest problem for Siberian bugloss, particularly in spring when tender new leaves emerge. Check regularly and use your preferred control method—hand-picking, beer traps, or organic pellets. Powdery mildew can occasionally appear on foliage in dry conditions, though plants in shade with adequate moisture are rarely affected. Remove any affected leaves promptly. Mulch annually in spring with organic matter to suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and improve soil structure. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot. Siberian bugloss is fully hardy and needs no winter protection in zones 7–9. The plant is long-lived and rarely needs dividing, but if clumps become congested or you want to propagate, lift and divide in early spring or autumn, replanting divisions immediately and watering well.