Brunnera
Siberian Bugloss
Handsome and undemanding, this ground cover forms large, tidy basal clumps of long-petioled, broad foliage, and displays charming flowers that begin blooming in early spring and persist through Memorial Day. Appreciating some shade plus evenly-moist organic-rich soil, Brunnera is at home by water’s edge, en masse in the border, or as a filler between newly planted shrubs.
Lush heart-shaped, 5 in. wide dark green foliage plus wiry branched stems waving tiny intensely blue flowers with yellow eyes beg you to think “forget-me-not”. This solidly colored verdant departure from its variegated cousins brings tasteful leafy texture to shady borders or woodland gardens.
Blooms mid-February–June
Size: 12" – 15" high x 2' 0" wide.
Hardy to zone 4.
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Alexanders Great’ (P-1978)
Each $13.25
Introduced by Terra Nova Nursery in 2013, a stunning, gigantic mass of enormous heart-style silver leaves inscribed with contrasting green veins and margins glorifies this hearty Alexander Zukeivich discovery. Petite, yellow-centered sky-blue flowers held in airy sprays make a delightful lighthearted splash above the lucent, well-groomed mound. (pp#25,789)
Blooms mid-February–June
Size: 15" – 18" high x 2' 0" – 2-1/2' wide.
Hardy to zone 4.
Boldly patterned with wide snowy-white margins and green centers, ‘Dawson’s White’ fashions a striking variegation that is further heightened by its endearing, forget-me-not–like azure-blue flowers. A shimmering addition for the shadows, this Brunnera needs protection from hot dry wind and too much sun.
Blooms mid-February–June
Size: 15" high x 2' 0" wide.
Hardy to zone 4.
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’ (P-0804)
Each $14.25
Not all variegated plants possess the sophisticated beauty displayed by this British introduction’s lovely foliage. It features felted, heart-shaped, pale green leaves, each rimmed with an irregular, rich cream-colored swath. Delicate sprays of starry blue flowers dance above on graceful stems, offering a soothing yet vibrant presence for a shady spot.
Blooms mid-February–June
Size: 15" high x 2' 0" wide.
Hardy to zone 4.
Awash in a mercury-like effulgence, broad heart-shaped leaves are etched by light green veins creating a dramatic crackled-ceramic pattern. ‘Jack Frost’s silvery persona offsets bronze, green and gold foliage, while sky-blue flowers add a playful lift. This refined Walters Gardens’ introduction originated from a ‘Langtrees’s sport and promises to furnish the darker alcoves of your garden with luminous accents (pp#13859)
Blooms mid-February–June
Size: 12" – 15" high x 2' 0" wide.
Hardy to zone 4.
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Mr. Morse’ (P-2135)
Each $15.75
Masterminded by Belgian plant breeder Chris Ghyselen, this Brunnera ‘Inspector Morse’ and Brunnera ‘Betty Bowring’ cross is wildly popular for its flurry of uniquely colored snow-white flowers. Airy branched racemes carry the small pearl-hued blossoms above dashing heart-style leaves bearing intricate silver and green tattoos. Whether in bloom or not, ‘Mr. Morse’s gleaming, easy-care persona can be ensconced alongside blue-blooming Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’ for a classy combination. (PPAF)
Blooms mid-February–June
Size: 12" – 18" high x 12" – 18" wide.
Hardy to zone 4.
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Silver Wings’ (P-1509)
Each $12.75
Encompassing each pewter-veiled leaf, a thin white margin illuminates this exceptional Brunnera ‘Langtrees’s sport introduced by Naylor Creek Gardens. Ample-sized, widely heart-shaped foliage has a central gray-green swath that separates the distinctive variegation and, in combination with the outlined edge, creates a winglike appearance. Tidy, vigorous and burn-resistant, the stylish gray frosted clump entertains plentiful clusters of long lasting, small wedgewood blue flowers. (pp#13706)
Blooms mid-February–June
Size: 12" – 15" high x 2' 0" wide.
Hardy to zone 4.
