Brunnera
Brunnera macrophylla
Brunnera macrophylla, known as Siberian Bugloss, is a charming shade-loving perennial featuring heart-shaped leaves and sprays of delicate blue forget-me-not-like flowers in spring. Many cultivars offer stunning variegated or silver foliage.
Boraginaceae (Borage family)
Mid to late spring (April-June)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Cultural Significance
Brunnera macrophylla is beloved by shade gardeners for its delicate blue flowers reminiscent of forget-me-nots, which bloom in early spring when the garden is awakening. The heart-shaped foliage provides elegant groundcover throughout the growing season. The plant symbolizes tranquility and quiet beauty, representing the peaceful, cool shade of woodland gardens. In recent decades, stunning variegated cultivars with silver, white-edged, or mottled leaves have made Brunnera a foliage star in modern shade gardening.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade preferred; tolerates morning sun if kept moist (variegated cultivars may scorch in full sun)
Water
Consistent moisture preferred; tolerates some drought once established but performs best with regular watering
Soil
Moist but well-drained, Rich in humus, Moderately fertile, Slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0)
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in spring or fall in partial to full shade
Space plants 18-24 inches apart
Mulch annually with compost to retain moisture and enrich soil
Cut back old foliage in late winter/early spring
Variegated cultivars need more shade to prevent leaf scorch
Divide clumps in early spring or take root cuttings in winter
Self-seeds moderately; seedlings may revert to plain green in variegated cultivars
Tolerates dry shade once established but prefers consistent moisture
Remove spent flower stems for tidiness (optional)
Award-winning cultivars include 'Jack Frost' and 'Hadspen Cream' (RHS AGM)
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Shade garden groundcover
- Woodland gardens
- Border edging (front of border)
- Under trees and shrubs
- Banks and slopes for erosion control
- Companion to spring bulbs
- Low-maintenance plantings
- Foliage interest (especially variegated cultivars)
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Brunnera
does brunnera spread
Yes, Brunnera spreads slowly by rhizomes to form clumps 18-24 inches wide and can self-seed moderately — it's not invasive but provides good groundcover in shade gardens.
why is my brunnera dying
Brunnera may struggle if planted in full sun, especially variegated cultivars which scorch easily — ensure it's in partial to full shade with consistent moisture and rich soil.
when to divide brunnera
Divide Brunnera in early spring before flowering or take root cuttings in winter — divisions establish quickly when planted in moist, shaded locations.
is brunnera deer resistant
Yes, Brunnera is generally deer resistant due to its rough, hairy foliage — deer typically avoid browsing on it, making it excellent for woodland gardens with deer pressure.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Ajuga reptans (and other spp.)
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Fern
Various families (Pteridaceae, Polypodiaceae, etc.)
Ferns are ancient non-flowering plants with delicate fronds. They symbolize tranquility, humility, and connection to primordial earth.