Siberian Bugloss Brunnera macrophylla
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as Siberian bugloss is a perennial that is greatly admired for its lush foliage and charming blooms. It features broad, heart-shaped leaves that are often dark green with a rough-textured surface. Many varieties showcase attractive variegation on the leaves, with patterns ranging from silver overlays to intricate veinings that create a striking contrast against the green backdrop. In the spring, Siberian bugloss produces delicate sprays of tiny, azure blue flowers that resemble those of forget-me-nots. These flowers are typically borne in airy, branched clusters above the foliage, creating a soft, cloud-like effect in the garden. The dainty blossoms have a simple yet endearing quality, with five petals and bright yellow centers that draw in pollinators and garden admirers alike. The overall impression given by the Siberian bugloss is one of a robust, shade-loving plant that adds both textural density and a splash of cool-toned color to the landscape. Its leaves provide a constant backdrop of greenery throughout the growing season, and the springtime blossoms bring a touch of whimsy and lightness, making it a popular choice for gardeners looking to create a serene and enchanting garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Boraginaceae.
Synonyms
Siberian Bugloss, Great Forget-Me-Not, Largeleaf Brunnera, Heartleaf Brunnera, False Forget-Me-Not.
Common names
Anchusa myosotidiflora, Anchusa sibirica, Brunnera sibirica
ToxicityTo humans
Siberian Bugloss is generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting the plant is unlikely to cause significant symptoms of poisoning. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities vary and it's always best to avoid ingesting plants not meant for consumption, since there may be a risk of gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Siberian Bugloss is not known to be toxic to pets. It should not cause significant symptoms if ingested in small quantities. However, consuming large amounts of any plant can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in some pets. It's always wise to monitor pets around houseplants and to discourage them from chewing on plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Blue
Height
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Spread
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
3-8
Native area
Caucasus
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Brunnera macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss, adds visual interest to gardens with its heart-shaped leaves and small, blue flowers resembling those of forget-me-nots.
- Shade Tolerance: This plant thrives in shady areas, making it perfect for underplanting beneath trees or in woodland gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Siberian bugloss requires minimal care, aside from occasional watering during extended dry spells.
- Pest Resistance: It is generally resistant to pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical treatments in the garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems.
- Seasonal Interest: Its foliage is often variegated, providing interest throughout the growing season, even when the plant is not in bloom.
- Erosion Control: The dense foliage and root system can help to stabilize soil and prevent erosion in shaded areas.
- Companion Planting: Siberian bugloss pairs well with other shade-loving plants like hostas and ferns, creating a varied, textured garden display.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Brunnera macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss, can be used as a natural dye, where the leaves and flowers may produce varying shades of blue or green, depending on the mordant used.
- The textured leaves of Siberian bugloss can be used in leaf casting projects to create decorative garden accents or art pieces that capture the intricate leaf vein patterns in a cement or plaster medium.
- Dried leaves and flowers of Siberian bugloss can be incorporated into potpourri mixes for a subtle fragrance and added visual appeal owing to their shape and texture.
- Considered deer-resistant, Siberian bugloss can be strategically planted in a garden to reduce browsing damage caused by deer on more vulnerable plants.
- The plant’s dense foliage provides shelter for small beneficial insects, thereby supporting local biodiversity and creating a more balanced ecosystem in the garden.
- Due to its ground-covering habit, Siberian bugloss can be used for erosion control on slopes or banks, as its roots help stabilize the soil.
- Siberian bugloss can be utilized in floral arrangements as fresh filler foliage that contrasts nicely with bright blooms, offering both color and texture to the design.
- The reflective quality of Siberian bugloss' variegated varieties can be used to brighten up shady areas in the garden, as their lighter-colored leaves can catch and reflect limited light.
- Landscapers may use Siberian bugloss as a living mulch, suppressing weeds with its dense leaf cover while also retaining soil moisture and temperature.
- As a companion plant, Siberian bugloss may be planted near crops or flowering plants that require a cooler microclimate, as its broad leaves provide shade and reduce the temperature of the surrounding area.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant_name is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant_name is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Perseverance - Brunnera macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss, can thrive in shady gardens, symbolizing the ability to grow and persevere even in less-than-ideal conditions.
- True Blue - Its bright blue flowers represent consistency and loyalty, making it a symbol of steadfastness and trust.
- Memory and Remembrance - The plant’s heart-shaped leaves have been associated with memories and the loved ones we keep in our hearts, often used to convey enduring remembrance.
WaterSiberian bugloss should be watered regularly, especially when planted in dry areas or during the summer months, to maintain evenly moist soil. As a general rule, aim to water this plant once a week with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water. However, the actual frequency may vary depending on the climate and soil conditions. It's vital to ensure that the plant is not left in standing water, as this could lead to root rot. During winter, reduce watering as the plant's water requirements decrease.
LightSiberian bugloss thrives in partial to full shade, which makes it an excellent choice for spots that receive dappled sunlight or are shaded for part of the day. Avoid placing it in full, direct sunlight, as this can scorch the leaves and lead to heat stress, which is especially harmful during the hot summer months.
TemperatureSiberian bugloss prefers cool to moderate temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8, withstanding temperatures down to -40 degrees Fahrenheit in winter. The ideal temperature range for thriving growth is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a resilient plant that can survive occasional temperature spikes, but prolonged heat, particularly above 80 degrees Fahrenheit, can stress the plant.
PruningPruning Siberian bugloss is mainly done to remove spent flower stalks and dead or damaged leaves, enhancing its appearance and preventing self-seeding if desired. The best time to prune is after flowering has finished, usually in late spring or early summer. Shape the plant as needed, but be careful not to cut into the dense basal foliage, as this can lead to sparse regrowth.
CleaningAs needed
SoilBrunnera macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss, thrives best in soil that is rich, moist, and well-draining with a pH range from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.0). For the ideal soil mix, combine garden soil with compost and peat moss to improve fertility and moisture retention.
RepottingSiberian bugloss, or Brunnera macrophylla, generally does not require frequent repotting. It is commonly grown as a perennial garden plant, and in containers, it should be repotted every 2 to 3 years or when it becomes root-bound.
Humidity & MistingSiberian bugloss prefers a moderately humid environment to mimic its natural woodland habitat, but it is quite adaptable and does not require excessively high humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep in low to moderate light, ensure soil is moist and well-draining.
Outdoor
Plant in partial shade, in moist, rich soil, avoid dry or sunny spots.
Hardiness zone
3-8 USDA
Life cycleSiberian Bugloss (Brunnera macrophylla) begins its life cycle from seed, which germinates in spring when temperatures are conducive to growth. Following germination, the seedlings develop into rosettes of heart-shaped leaves, marking the vegetative stage. As the plant matures, it forms a clump of foliage from which emerge flowering stems in spring. During the flowering stage, the plant produces small, forget-me-not-like blue flowers that are capable of attracting pollinators for sexual reproduction, resulting in seed production. After flowering, the plant enters a period of senescence in late summer or fall; however, Siberian Bugloss is a perennial, so while aboveground growth dies back, its root system remains alive over winter. The cycle resumes the following spring, with new growth emerging from the perennial rootstock to begin the process anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Brunnera macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss, can be propagated most popularly by division. This method is most effectively carried out in the early spring as the plant emerges from dormancy or in the fall when the plant has finished flowering and the weather has cooled. To propagate by division, carefully lift the parent plant from the soil, making sure to keep a good amount of the root system intact. Then, using a sharp spade or knife, divide the plant into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least a couple of growth points or shoots. Replant the divisions immediately at the same depth they were originally grown, spacing them about 12 to 18 inches apart, which is roughly 30 to 45 centimeters, to give them room to grow. Water the new plants well to help establish their root systems. This straightforward method is excellent for expanding your collection of Siberian bugloss or sharing with fellow gardeners.
