Broadleaf forget-me-not: complete guide

Overview

The Myosotis latifolia, commonly known as broadleaf forget-me-not or woodland forget-me-not, is a charming plant from the Boraginaceae family. This plant occurs naturally on the Canary Islands and the Azores. It is a delightful plant with characteristic tiny blue flowers that produce abundant flower clusters.

The plant reaches 20-40 cm height and flowers from May to September. The flowers are incredibly small, approximately 0.5-1 cm diameter, but are produced in large numbers. The plant grows quickly and forms dense plant mass. Hardy to -10 degrees, though usually resown annually.

Appearance and bloom

The Myosotis latifolia is characteristic for its broad-leaved foliage form (hence the name). The leaves are approximately 5-8 cm long, oblong to lance-shaped, rough-hairy. The stems are also hairy and grow upright to semi-prostrate.

The flowers are small, five-lobed, bright blue to pink. They are produced in spiral clusters (cymes) that gradually unwind. The flowers have a yellow to white center (corona). The bloom is extremely prolific and extends from May to first frosts.

Ideal location

The Myosotis latifolia grows best in half-shaded locations. Though sun tolerant, it flowers longer in light shade. It is very suitable for woodland edges, under shrubs and next to larger plants.

Ideal in borders, along paths and in containers where delicate flowers are clearly visible. Also very suitable under trees where little else grows well.

Soil

The Myosotis latifolia grows in almost any soil, but thrives best in moist, humus-rich soils. Add compost or leaf at planting. The plant tolerates both acidic and alkaline soils.

Moisture retention is important. Lightly moist soil promotes full growth. In dry soils the plant grows much slower and flowers less.

Watering

Provide regular water, especially during growing season. The plant tolerates even wetter soils than many other flowers. In hot periods water regularly.

When plant begins to set seed (September-October) water can be gradually reduced. When overwintering under glass drain very well.

Pruning

Pruning is not needed, but removing faded flowers extends the flowering phase. When plant begins to fade and form seeds this plant can be pulled and replacement planted.

Maintenance calendar

March-April: Sow seed or set out young plants. May-June: Plant grows quickly. Regular water. Weak feeding. July-August: Peak of bloom. Plenty of water. Remove faded flowers. September-October: Plant weakens. Seed formation. Limit water. November-January: Plant dies off. Over-wintered plants in greenhouse. February: Prepare for spring peak.

Winter hardiness

The Myosotis latifolia is moderately hardy to -10 degrees. In much of Europe not hardy enough without protection. This plant is usually resown annually or propagated from over-wintered plants under glass.

In very mild climates (coastal zones) the plant can remain perennial. In strict climate better treated as annual plant.

Companion plants

The Myosotis latifolia combines nicely with:

• Hellebores: long-flowering beauty
• Pulmonaria: contrasting foliage color
• Hosta: large foliage mass next to fine flowers
• Liriope: grass-like structure
• Ajuga: low-growing groundcover

Conclusion

The Myosotis latifolia is ideal for gardeners who want extended blooming perspectives. With its incredibly fine flowers and long flowering phase, this is a plant that receives much attention. You can purchase seeds of this plant at Intratuin or Gamma. Easy to grow from seed and very economical.

Follow these guidelines and you will enjoy for years this charming woodland beauty. Visit gardenworld.app for more garden inspiration and designs.