Climbing forget-me-not
omphalodes verna
Also known as: ["Navelwort","Little forget-me-not"]
Overview
A low-growing, herbaceous perennial with small, bright blue flowers resembling forget-me-nots, native to Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Omphalodes |
| Botanical Name: | Omphalodes verna |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shady garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging; avoid heavy clay soils.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; a mix of loam, peat, and perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering in spring; light trimming as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning which can reduce flowering.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours per day; can tolerate partial shade, especially in warmer months to prevent leaf scorch.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from shade; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid compacted soil; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps; stem cuttings root easily in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node; shape as needed after flowering.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Remove dead or damaged growth; deadhead spent flowers; trim to shape; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial to refresh soil and provide more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water begins to drain from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during spring and early summer when actively growing, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage if soil freezes; prolonged cold may lead to dieback.
Solution: Insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates; move containers to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; stress may lead to pest susceptibility.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but ensure good drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOmphalodes verna is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a known risk of poisoning or adverse health effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicOmphalodes verna 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-toxicOmphalodes verna is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Omphalodes verna?
A: Propagate by seed in autumn or by division in spring.
Q: Does Omphalodes verna attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Can Omphalodes verna grow in full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate some morning sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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