Siberian bugloss
brunnera macrophylla
Also known as: ["Heartleaf Brunnera","Greatleaf Brunnera"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with heart-shaped leaves and delicate blue flowers, native to the Caucasus region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Brunnera |
| Botanical Name: | Brunnera macrophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with high organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 3–4 hours of morning sunlight or bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from indoors to outdoors; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a location with dappled light or filtered shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid hot afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot weather
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots dry out completely; water more during active growth periods.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid placing in drafty areas; maintain consistent temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize lightly to avoid burning roots; apply before new growth emerges; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division is the most reliable method; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide clumps into sections with at least one growth bud.
- Replant immediately at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is not in active bloom.
Environment
Shaded, humid environment with consistent moisture and temperatures around 65–70°F (18–21°C).
Medium
Rich, well-draining soil with added compost or peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings but is optional.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 4–6 weeks, full establishment in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or spade, gloves, pots or planting beds.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has healthy roots and foliage; water well after replanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted stems at the base; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors, or a sharp knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune in late winter/early spring; remove only necessary stems; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and size control.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a month.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water begins to drain from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost, peat moss, or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and moisture retention; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or yellowing in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in fall; protect from frost with a frost cloth; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or develop brown edges; growth may slow or stop in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at half strength; fertilize in spring and summer only; avoid over-fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBrunnera macrophylla is not considered toxic to cats. It poses no known risk of poisoning or irritation upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBrunnera macrophylla is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBrunnera macrophylla is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Brunnera macrophylla prefer sun or shade?
A: It thrives in partial to full shade, making it ideal for woodland gardens.
Q: How often should I water Brunnera macrophylla?
A: Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Brunnera macrophylla attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies, supporting pollinator populations.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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