It’s Ferb Vu here, and today I want to tackle some of the most common questions I get about one of my favorite shade plants: Brunnera Macrophylla. If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a plant that delivers big on foliage and delicate blooms, and Brunnera certainly fits the bill. Let’s dive into some frequently asked questions.
What exactly is Brunnera Macrophylla?
Brunnera Macrophylla, often called Siberian Bugloss or Great Forget-Me-Not, is a truly remarkable perennial. It’s cherished for its large, heart-shaped leaves, which often have striking silver variegation. In spring, delicate sprays of tiny, true-blue flowers appear, resembling forget-me-nots. These blooms add a beautiful ethereal touch to the shade garden. It’s a member of the Boraginaceae family, which also includes borage and comfrey. The plant’s mounding habit and attractive foliage make it a superb groundcover or border plant.
Where should I plant Brunnera Macrophylla?
When considering a spot for your Brunnera, think shade. These plants thrive in partial to full shade. Direct afternoon sun can scorch their leaves, especially the variegated varieties. Morning sun is usually acceptable. They also prefer consistently moist, well-drained soil. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage. If your soil is sandy, adding compost will help retain moisture. I’ve found that a rich, humusy soil truly makes them happy. Consider the eventual size of the plant; mature clumps can reach 1 to 2 feet tall and wide.
How do I care for Brunnera Macrophylla?
Care for Brunnera is relatively straightforward. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely. A layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. In terms of feeding, a light application of a balanced granular fertilizer in early spring is usually sufficient. Deadheading spent flower stalks isn’t strictly necessary for the plant’s health, but it can improve its appearance. I often trim off any ragged or brown leaves throughout the season to maintain a tidy look. Divisions can be made in early spring or fall if you want to propagate more plants or reduce the size of an existing clump.
Is Brunnera Macrophylla invasive?
This is a question I get quite often, and thankfully, the answer is no. Brunnera Macrophylla is not considered an invasive plant. It spreads by rhizomes but does so at a moderate pace, forming a tidy clump rather than aggressively taking over an area. While it may self-seed if conditions are ideal, the seedlings are generally easy to manage. I’ve never found it to be a nuisance in my gardens. It’s a well-behaved plant that stays where you put it, gradually expanding its footprint without becoming a problem for other plants. This non-invasive nature is a significant advantage, especially for gardeners who prefer low-maintenance landscapes.
Is Brunnera Macrophylla poisonous to dogs?
Another common and very important concern for pet owners. From what I’ve gathered through my research and experience, Brunnera Macrophylla is generally considered non-toxic to dogs and other pets. While it’s always wise to discourage pets from munching on any plant, there are no widespread reports of adverse reactions from Brunnera ingestion. However, every animal is different, and sensitivities can vary. If you suspect your dog has eaten a significant amount of any plant and is showing unusual symptoms, it’s always best to contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s always good practice to keep an eye on curious pets around new plantings.
Does Brunnera Macrophylla attract pollinators?
Yes, it does! The delicate blue flowers of Brunnera Macrophylla are a lovely early spring nectar source for various pollinators. Bees, particularly smaller solitary bees, and other beneficial insects are often attracted to the blooms. Planting Brunnera contributes to a healthy ecosystem in your garden, providing valuable sustenance when other flowers may not yet be in bloom. This makes it a great choice for pollinator gardens or for simply enhancing biodiversity in your landscape.
Can Brunnera Macrophylla tolerate dry shade?
While Brunnera Macrophylla prefers consistently moist soil, it can tolerate periods of dry shade once established, but it won’t perform optimally. Prolonged dry spells in hot conditions will lead to leaf scorching and a general decline in vigor. If you have genuinely dry shade, you’ll need to provide supplemental irrigation, especially during its establishment period. For a truly thriving Brunnera, regular moisture is key. Consider incorporating organic matter heavily into the soil to improve water retention if you have naturally dry conditions.
What are some good companion plants for Brunnera Macrophylla?
Brunnera Macrophylla pairs beautifully with a variety of other shade-loving plants. Its fine texture and often silver foliage provide a wonderful contrast to broad-leaved plants. Some excellent companions include Hostas, Ferns (like Japanese Painted Fern or Lady Fern), Epimediums, Heuchera (Coral Bells), and Pulmonaria (Lungwort). The spring blooms of Brunnera also complement early spring bulbs like miniature daffodils or scilla. I love combining it with the vibrant greens of ferns and the varied foliage of Hostas to create a rich tapestry of textures and colors in the shade garden.
Brunnera Macrophylla truly is a gem for the shade garden. With its stunning foliage, delicate blue flowers, and relatively low maintenance, it’s a plant I recommend time and time again. I hope this FAQ has shed some light on this wonderful perennial and encouraged you to give it a try in your own garden! Happy gardening!
If i die, water my plants!
