Height:

12.0-15.0 Inches

Spread:

12.0-15.0 Inches

Hardiness Zones:

3,4,5,6,7,8

Flower Color:

Blue shades

Foliage Color:

Silver/grey shades

Sunlight:

Part Shade (4-6 hrs. Direct Sun) Full Shade (< 4 hrs. Direct Sun)

Water Requirements:

Average Water Needs Consistent Water Needs

Soil Quality:

Average Soil Quality Fertile Soil Quality

Soil Chemistry:

Neutral Soil (pH = 7.0) Alkaline Soil (pH > 7.0)

Bloomtime:

Mid Spring Late Spring

Attracts Wings:

Bee Friendly

Critter Resistant:

Deer Resistant

Growth Rate:

Medium

Garden Style:

Patio Container Eclectic Rock Garden Woodland Shade

Other Features:

Border Plant Container Cut Flower Cut Foliage Mass Planting Specimen Focal Point

Origin:

Not Native to North America

Brunnera is a woodland plant that should be grown in full shade and consistently moist soil in southern regions. In the north, morning sun is acceptable as long as the soil remains moist. They will grow the fastest and strongest in rich soil.

Little care is needed once Brunnera is established. Cut back the old foliage in the spring rather than in the fall; it will help to protect the crown during the winter. A winter mulch is also recommended.

Growing Temperature:

65° F

Holding Temperature:

50-60° F

Soil PH:

5.8-6.2

EC (What is EC?):

2.0-2.5 pour through method

Fertility:

Brunnera are light feeders, requiring nitrate levels of 50 ppm under a constant liquid feed program. Brunnera may benefit from additional iron applications. For Controlled Release or Slow Release Fertilizer, see your preferred supplier for recommended rates for incorporation or top dressing, as it varies by fertilizer.

Vernalization:

Vernalize for a minimum of 9 weeks at temperatures below 40° F for consistant flowering.

Pests & Diseases:

Aphids and slugs are the primary pests of Brunnera.  Control both as needed.  Aphids can be detected on or near the fresh new growth and on the underside of the leaves.  Slugs are often difficult to locate, however leaf injuries will indicate their presence. Bacterial leaf spot (BLS) can affect Brunnera during hot and humid conditions, some of the newer genetics are much more resistant to BLS.

Potting & Timing:

Plant large plugs for a quick 6 week crop time.
Small plugs can be planted in late summer for early spring sales or plant in spring for a 7-9 week finish.

Moisture:

For potting soil use commercial planting media. Provide an average amount of irrigation, Brunnera do not tolerate very dry or very wet soil conditions.

Planting Level:

At the soil line or slightly above.

PGRs/Pinching:

If toning is required, spray applications of 2,500 ppm Daminozide (B-Nine or Dazide) or 5-ppm Uniconazole (Concise or Sumagic) are effective. One to two applications should provide adequate height control.

Lighting:

Brunnera are day neutral.
Provide light to moderate shade to avoid sun scorch.

Other Comments:

High light intensities can cause leaf scorch.  We recommend growing Brunnera under at least 35% shade cloth during the summer months.

Awards

Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit -- 2004

Missouri Botanical Garden Plants of Merit

Plantarium Gold Medal -- 2001

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