PerennialsBrunnera macrophylla
Siberian Bugloss
Siberian Bugloss is an elegant shade plant with clouds of small sky-blue flowers above large, heart-shaped foliage. Blooming occurs in April and May, reminiscent of common forget-me-nots. The silver-toned leaves of popular cultivars remain decorative throughout the season.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Partial shade
- Water
- Medium
- Height
- 30–45 cm
- Spread
- 40–60 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 3–7
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- blue
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in partial shade in humus-rich, moist soil. Avoid drying out and full sun, especially with silver-leaved forms — the foliage can scorch. Mulch in spring with compost to retain moisture. The plant is fully hardy and requires little maintenance.
Pruning tips
Remove flower stems after blooming for a tidier appearance. Cut back old foliage in autumn or early spring. Divide the plant every three to four years if growth declines.
Good companions
PerennialsHosta sieboldiana
Hosta
Hosta is the quintessential shade plant, valued for its large, blue-green, ribbed leaves. Light purple or white bell-shaped flowers appear on tall stems in July and August. Over the years the plant forms substantial clumps that give a shaded border a lush character.
PerennialsHelleborus orientalis
Lenten Rose
The Lenten Rose is one of the first bloomers of the garden year, with saucer-shaped flowers in purple, pink or white appearing as early as February. The evergreen, palmate foliage forms attractive clumps that remain decorative year-round. The plant is a valuable early nectar source for bees.
PerennialsTiarella cordifolia
Foam Flower
Foam Flower is a delicate shade plant with clouds of small white to pink flowers that seem to float above the heart-shaped foliage. Blooming lasts from April to June, adding an airy accent to the shade border. The foliage is evergreen and often turns an attractive bronze-red in autumn.