How to Grow Brunnera
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Brunnera
Brunnera macrophylla
flowerBrunnera is a shade-loving perennial with heart-shaped leaves and delicate blue forget-me-not-like flowers. Native to Siberia and the Caucasus, it's a low-maintenance groundcover that brightens shaded gardens and tolerates deer and rabbits. The plant is sometimes called Siberian bugloss and is prized for its airy spring blooms and attractive foliage.
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Example Brunnera timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Brunnera
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Brunnera blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, prefers cooler climates with afternoon shade in warmer zones
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Get my Brunnera timeline →Growth Stages
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksLush foliage expands with large, distinctive heart-shaped leaves emerging from the base; plants fill in and spread via rhizomes
Thin crowded areas if desired. Water regularly. Watch for slug damage and treat as needed. Variegated varieties become more vibrant in partial shade.
Flowering
4-6 weeks (typically April-May)Airy panicles of tiny blue flowers emerge on delicate stems above the foliage, resembling forget-me-nots
Deadhead spent flowers to extend blooming and reduce self-seeding. Stake tall varieties if needed in windy locations. Flowers attract pollinators.
Post-Flowering & Foliage Focus
12+ weeksFlowers fade but handsome foliage remains attractive throughout summer and into fall; some varieties have striking leaf patterns
Cut back dead flower stems. Continue regular watering during dry spells. Variegated foliage varieties may fade in full sun; ensure adequate shade.
Dormancy & Winter
Variable; 2-4 months depending on climateFoliage dies back after frost; plant goes dormant underground in cold climates
Leave dead foliage as winter mulch or cut back in fall. Divided plants in fall should be mulched to protect from heaving. No watering needed during winter dormancy.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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and
Remove by hand, use beer traps, apply copper tape barriers, or use iron phosphate-based slug baits. Encourage ground beetles and other natural predators.
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Increase humidity, spray with water to dislodge, use neem oil or miticide spray if severe. Stress from heat worsens infestations.
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Prune affected leaves, handpick if possible. Use insecticidal soap or spinosad as needed.
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Handpick in early morning, use traps away from plants, or apply neem oil. Less common on established plants.
Uses
Edible Flowers
CulinaryThe delicate blue flowers are edible with a mild, slightly tangy flavor and make an attractive garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn traditional European herbalism, brunnera has been used to support respiratory health and as a general tonic, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
Cut Flower Arrangements
HouseholdThe airy flower stems are perfect for fresh spring arrangements and flower combinations, providing a delicate texture and soft blue color. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making brunnera valuable for supporting early-season pollinators. [source]
Ornamental Shade Groundcover
CraftBrunnera is an excellent low-maintenance groundcover for shaded woodland gardens, underplanting beneath trees, or creating textured mixed borders with attractive heart-shaped foliage. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Brunnera is not typically harvested but enjoyed ornamentally. Cut fresh flowers for arrangements in spring; stems last 7-10 days in water. For propagation, divide clumps in early spring or fall when soil is moist. Collect ripe seeds in late summer and sow immediately or cold-stratify for spring sowing.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Brunnera is sometimes called 'Siberian bugloss,' though it is not in the true bugloss genus; the name reflects similar delicate flowers.
- 🌱 The plant is highly deer and rabbit resistant, making it an excellent choice for gardens where these herbivores are problematic.
- 🌱 Variegated cultivars like 'Silver Heart' and 'Jack Frost' have striking foliage with silver or white markings that brighten deep shade—some gardeners grow it primarily for the leaves rather than flowers.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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