Lesser Forget-me-not
myosotis laxa
Also known as: ["Small-flowered Forget-me-not","Creeping Forget-me-not"]
Overview
A low-growing perennial herb with small, bright blue flowers and narrow leaves, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Myosotis |
| Botanical Name: | Myosotis laxa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in winter.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun indoors or outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant dry out completely.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Avoid fertilizing in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruners.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh potting mix; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; improves growth and blooming.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; repot with fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early morning or late evening; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without pooling.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or browning in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots with bubble wrap in cold climates.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently in hot weather.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer).
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Myosotis laxa, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and potential liver issues. The risk is higher in cats due to their sensitivity to certain toxins.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Myosotis laxa can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Symptoms are usually not severe unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMyosotis laxa, commonly known as small forget-me-not, contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage upon ingestion. The toxicity is generally mild but can be cumulative with repeated exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Myosotis laxa?
A: Water moderately, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Myosotis laxa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its bright blue flowers.
Q: Can Myosotis laxa grow in shade?
A: Yes, it thrives in partial to full shade and is well-suited for shaded garden areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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