Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost'

Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' is most at home in woodlands or along a shady stream bed, where it will form a lush understory of quiet beauty. One of its common names, False Forget-me-not, refers to the intense azure flowers. 'Jack Frost' is a standout variety with silvery leaves veined and outlined in green. The plants grow to 12" tall and as wide, topped in May and June by clusters of blue flowers. Perfect as an accent in a shaded border with Hostas and Ferns, or as a drift in a woodland.

The genus Brunnera contains three species of perennials in the Borage family. Native to the woodlands of Eastern Europe and Northwest Asia, all are characterized by green basal foliage and sprays of small blue flowers resembling their Forget-me-not cousins. Brunnera macrophylla (Siberian Bugloss) and its variegated cultivars are frequently grown in ornamental gardens. Like many relatives, notably Borage and Comfrey, its beautifully formed, heart-shaped leaves also have a rough, hairy texture that is unappealing to herbivores. Siberian Bugloss thrives in cool, shady woodland situations with moist soil that is rich in organic matter. It is tolerant of clay but does not tolerate dry soil or hot humid summers.

For information on the growing and care of Brunnera, click Growing Guide.