Brunnera is homemade. Brunner: cultivation and care in open ground

Brunnera is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Borage family. In the wild, this unpretentious plant is distributed in Eastern and Western Siberia, Asia Minor and the Caucasus. There are few varieties of Brunnera: the genus has only three species. Only two forms are cultivated - Brunner Siberian and Brunner macrophylla.

In modern landscape design, Brunnera is used as a border plant, and is also planted as a decorative group in mixborders.

Etymology of the plant name

The plant received its scientific name in honor of the famous traveler and botanist from Switzerland, Samuel Brunner. In 1831, a traveler visited Crimea, where he first saw this original flower and described it.

Botanical description of Brunnera

Brunnera grows up to 0.5 meters in height. It has a thick, long rhizome. The shoots are branched and pubescent.

Leaves are basal. They are quite large, wide, and shaped like a heart. The leaf blades are held on long petioles.

Bright blue-blue flowers are collected in loose paniculate or corymbose inflorescences. The diameter of the flowers ranges from 5 to 10 mm. The corolla of the flower is brachymorphic, forget-me-not-shaped, with short blunt lobes and five short-ovate velvety arches in the pharynx. The calyx is cut into ¾ parts by linear pointed lobules. The stamens and pistil style do not protrude from the corolla.

Brunner begins to bloom in April. Externally, the flowers resemble Forget-me-not, but unlike it, Brunnera’s spot inside is colored not yellow, but white.

In one place, Brunnera can grow for up to 15 years or more.

Types and varieties of Brunners

Brunnera Macrophylla

Brunnera macrofolia

The main habitat is the Caucasus, hence the second name - “Caucasian Forget-Me-Not”. The height of the bush is 30-40 cm. The stems are branched, leafy, rough and pubescent. The leaves are basal, long-petiolate, oblong-heart-shaped. The leaves are dark green on top and grayish on the underside due to the pubescence of the leaf blades.

The flowers are small, dark blue with a white center. They are part of the apical inflorescences of a paniculate-corymbose shape.

Main varieties:

• "Millennium Silber". The leaf blades are covered with whitish-silver spots on top;
• "Jack Frost". Green veins are clearly visible on top of the silvery leaves.
• "Hadspen Cream." Wide heart-shaped leaves are edged with a creamy white stripe.
• Langtrees. There are small silvery dots on the dark green leaf blades.
• "Variegata". On the leaf blades there is a wide strip of creamy white color, which extends into the green part with deep tongues.

Attention! When choosing a variety, you should pay special attention to the rules of their cultivation. It is not recommended to plant two different varieties next to each other. This will cause inconvenience in their care!

Brunnera Sibirica

Brunnera Sibirskaya

The height of the shoots reaches up to 60 cm. The shoots are glandular-pubescent, solitary. The species grows quickly, forming thickets. The basal leaves are large, long-petioled, slightly wrinkled, and heart-shaped. Stem leaves are sessile, lanceolate.

The flowers are dark blue with a white center. The diameter of the flower is 0.5 cm. The flowers are collected in paniculate inflorescences. The beginning of flowering is May. Flowering lasts for 3 weeks.

Planting Brunnera in open ground

In the wild, Brunnera grows in the forest, and therefore it needs to create conditions close to natural.

Site selection

It is better to plant Brunner in the shady part of the site. If you grow the plant in an open place, the scorching rays of the sun can cause severe burns to the leaf blades. But if you grow Brunnera near a pond, it will withstand direct sunlight.

Soil composition

Moist clay soil is suitable for planting Brunnera. But Brunnera Sibirskaya prefers more nutritious soil rich in humus.

Landing time

Brunnera should be planted or replanted in late July - early August. The fact is that the plant tolerates spring planting or replanting very poorly. The procedure is carried out in the evening or on a cloudy day.

Planting technique

As a rule, planting Brunnera macrophylla is combined with dividing the bush. When the bush fades, you need to dig it up, clear the root system of soil by immersing it in a container of water. Then the bush must be divided into several parts. When dividing, you should leave roots on each division, as well as a bud for next year’s restoration. The resulting cuttings are planted in planting holes and spilled with water.

Brunnera sibirica can be grown by cuttings of rhizomes, which are located very close to the surface of the soil. The rhizome is dug up, old and rotten areas are cut out of it. After this, the rhizome is divided into several parts, but in such a way that at least one living renewal bud is present on each division. The length of the divisions is 4-6 cm. Each division is planted separately, buried 2-3 cm in the soil, after which it is well shed with water. When the plants are planted, the surface of the soil is covered with a layer of mulch.

Caring for Brunnera

It should be noted that caring for Brunnera macrophylla is somewhat different from caring for Brunnera Sibirica.

Large-leaved Brunnera does not lose its decorative value throughout the entire growing season, and if favorable conditions are created for it during planting, then care for a plant of this species is reduced to a minimum - the removal of weeds. It is not recommended to loosen the soil so as not to damage the roots located close to the surface of the earth.

As for Brunnera Sibirica, this species requires attention. After flowering is completed, brown spots appear on its leaf blades, and the foliage begins to dry. To preserve the beauty of the bush, these leaves should be removed. Siberian Brunner does not need watering, loosening, or removing weeds. But if the summer is excessively hot and dry, the plant will have to be watered periodically. The frequency of watering is once every 10-15 days.

Top dressing

Brunnera, like any plant, responds well to fertilizing. During the season, the plant must be fed 3-4 times with complex mineral fertilizers.

Diseases and pests that threaten Brunnera

If the soil is over-moistened, Brunnera may be affected by brown spot. This is evidenced by spots that appear on the leaf blades. In addition to brown spot, Brunner can also be affected by powdery mildew. In this case, all infected parts of the plant are removed, after which the bush is treated with Bordeaux mixture or another fungicidal agent.

Whiteflies or aphids can often be seen on Brunner. To rid the plant of pests, it is recommended to treat the bush with Karbofos or Actellik.

Preparing for winter

Brunnera is prepared for winter as follows: the leaves are cut off in the fall. There is no need to cover the plant, since it is quite frost-resistant. Brunnera can survive frosts down to -30°C. But experienced gardeners still recommend covering the area with a layer of mulch, which can be peat, compost or humus.

Brunner in the garden

With the help of Brunnera, especially in combination with other ornamental plants, you can decorate recreation areas in the garden, for example, the shore of an artificial pond, an area next to a gazebo. Plants such as Periwinkle, low varieties of Salvia, and Tulips go well with Brunnera. The flower bed looks very beautiful if tea or climbing roses are planted in the background.

Of course, creating such a “live” composition is difficult, but it’s worth it.

A plant such as Brunnera or Brunnera is directly related to the genus of herbaceous perennial plants of the borage family. This genus includes 3 species. These plants are found naturally in Western and Eastern Siberia, the Caucasus and Asia Minor. This flower was named after the Swiss S. Brunner, who is known as a traveler and botanist. Only 2 types of brunnera are cultivated, namely: Siberian and large-leaved. These plants are most often used to create borders and for stable decorative groups as part of mixborders.

Description

Brunnera is a true herbaceous perennial, capable of growing in one place for more than 10 years, forming dense thickets without degenerating or shredding the leaves. Perhaps the powerful energy of growth and self-preservation is due to the fact that it belongs to the relict representatives of the flora. This is a speck of dust from the past that has survived to this day and remembers what the planet’s vegetation was like more than 5 million years ago.

Science knows only a few species of this plant; two are of interest to gardeners.

1. Brunnera macrophylla is common in the Caucasus. It forms a short rhizome, from which basal leaves grow on tall petioles and stems up to 60 cm high, forming a spreading bush. The rosette leaves are large, smaller on the side shoots, the leaf blade is elongated, heart-shaped, green, somewhat wrinkled, pubescent with small hairs on both sides.
2. Brunnera sibirica is similar to its Caucasian relative, but does not form bushes, but continuous thickets. Its leaves are even larger and more spectacular, it is distinguished by early flowering and cold resistance - this is reflected in its Siberian character. The only drawback that reduces the popularity of the crop in floriculture is the loss of decorativeness after flowering. This distinguishes the Siberian variety from the large-leaved variety, which produces fresh foliage throughout the growing season.

The perennial blooms from the end of April, throwing out paniculate inflorescences covered with blue flowers, similar to forget-me-nots. The only difference is the color of the pharynx (eye): the brunnera flower is white, while the forget-me-not is yellow.

Planting and care

Brunnera grows naturally in forest areas, so it tolerates shady places well. Exposure to sunlight is permissible only for a short time; open sun causes oppression and death of the plant. You can place the Brunner in an open place only near a body of water. In hot regions, constant shade is preferable. The openwork partial shade of fruit trees is an ideal option for placing brunnera.

• The soil for planting Siberian brunnera should be clayey, heavy, and moist.
• Brunnera macrophylla prefers looser, fertile soil. In one place, both species can grow without transplanting for more than 15 years or longer.
• Prefers fertilizing with organic fertilizers. For this, an infusion of mullein is prepared and fed once a month.
• You can mulch the plantings with humus in the fall so that in the spring, when the snow melts, the roots receive enough nutrients.

The rhizomes of the plant intertwine in moist soil and prevent other plants from germinating among themselves. Therefore, weeding is necessary only during transplantation and propagation, until young specimens have gained power.
The roots of the brunner are located almost on the surface, so loosening is not carried out so as not to damage them. Plantings should be mulched with humus to retain moisture in the soil longer.

Brunnera forcing is possible

• To do this, carefully dig up the rhizome with a lump of earth, transfer it to a large flowerpot with drainage holes, filled with a nutrient substrate.
• Before the onset of cold weather, you can leave the plant outdoors so that it adapts faster.
• Then it is transferred to a cool room. The soil is kept moist, avoiding overwatering.
• In good light, Brunnera quickly begins to grow; to speed up flowering, it can be brought into a warmer room.
• Flower shoots will appear by mid-December. By experimenting with the temperature, you can achieve flowering for New Year's or other holidays.

Excellent for mixborders, borders as a background plant. Brunnera is self-sufficient in single plantings on lawns, flower beds, and borders.

Types and varieties of brunners

There are 3 types of brunners:

Brunnera macrophylla- its homeland is the Caucasus. Externally, it is a small shrub about 40 cm tall with a powerful rhizome, from which densely pubescent stems with dark green, pointed, heart-shaped leaves extend to the sides. Flowers ranging from lilac to dark blue with a white spot in the center are collected in panicles. The flowering period is from the end of April to the end of June. It is most popular among gardeners, since the leaves do not change color until deep frost.

Siberian Brunnera (Brunnera sibirica)- owes its name to its place of origin - Western and Eastern Siberia. Its long and strong rhizome develops a whole network underground, the shoots from which cover the ground with a carpet of plants. Does not form a bush. Flowers of a dark blue color rise above the wrinkled and dense leaves in panicle inflorescences. Prefers shady, damp places. The flowering process lasts from the end of May for a month. Then the plant almost dries out, but from mid-August it is covered with new greenery, which it preserves until frost.

Oriental Brunnera (Brunnera orientalis)- Homeland is the countries of the Middle East. It is not particularly decorative, therefore it is not used as a decoration for areas, but grows only in the natural environment.

Varieties of large-leaved brunnera

Since of all the species the most attractive for landscaping is Brunnera macrophylla, it became the basis for the development of various varieties.

Jack Frost- “Frost” is translated from English as “frost.” The variety bears this name for a reason: the leaves look as if covered with frost - green veins on a silver background. It forms a fairly large bush, reaching 60 cm in height. It blooms from May to June and is characterized by increased frost resistance.

To preserve the decorative appearance of the leaves, constant moisture is necessary. Therefore, the northern part of the site, protected from prolonged exposure to sunlight, where water stagnates during rains, is quite suitable for planting. It is not worth planting in full shade, as well as in full sun.

Variegata- low variety - up to 35 cm. The leaves are emerald green with a transition to white at the edges.

Prefers partial shade. When planted in a sunny place, the leaves will burn and lose their decorative effect. It can also completely lose its leaves in case of drought.

Looking glass- translated as “mirror”. The height is only from 20 to 35 cm. The color of the leaves is dominated by a silver tint. The flowers are pale blue with a diameter of 5 to 7 mm.

Shady and semi-shady places are suitable for planting. The bushes hold their shape well and are quite resistant to fungal infections. Excellent for decorating borders and shaded parts of rockeries.

Kings Ransom- shrub from 40 to 55 cm in height. The leaves are large with dark green veins on a light gray background, creamy at the edges. It blooms abundantly from late April to mid-June. In warm autumn weather, flowering may resume, but in this case it is better to remove the inflorescences so that the plant does not lose strength before winter. Grows well in partial shade with regular watering.

Millennium Silber- the emerald leaves of this variety are covered with a scattering of small white spots closer to the edge, which makes it more recognizable among the others. Growing conditions are the same as for other varieties.

Silver Hut- if you translate the name from English into Russian, it will sound like “silver heart”. Anyone who sees the leaves of this Brunnera variety will immediately understand why it was called that. It’s as if dozens of silver hearts with a thin green edge and veins frame the flower stalks. The bush reaches 40 cm in height and up to half a meter in diameter. Thanks to the dense leaf blade, it can withstand even direct sunlight and is not afraid of excess moisture. It is not demanding on soil acidity.

Pests and diseases

If there is a lot of rain in the summer, then such a plant may develop brown spotting; the infection will be indicated by spots that appear on the leaf blades. Brunera can also become infected with powdery mildew. All infected parts must be removed from a diseased specimen, and then it must be treated with any fungicidal agent (for example, Bordeaux mixture).

Whiteflies and aphids can also settle on this flower. To destroy them, it is recommended to treat the bush with Karbofos or Actellik.

Wintering

Preparing Brunnera for the coming winter is very simple. Leaf blades need to be cut off in the fall, as they do not die off on their own. There is no need to cover these flowers, because they are quite winter-hardy, however, experienced gardeners recommend covering the area with a layer of mulch (peat, compost or humus).

Growing seedlings

• You can try to grow brunnera seedlings - to do this, they are sown in bowls or containers with dense soil and placed in the refrigerator or under the snow for stratification for 4 months.
• At the end of winter, the bowl is placed on the windowsill.
• Sprouts will appear in two weeks, but not all at the same time.
• When sowing sparsely, you can not pick them up, but lightly add soil to the container with the seedlings.
• Then they are grown as ordinary seedlings, feeding them twice a month with liquid complex fertilizer.
• Such plants will be ready for planting in the garden with the onset of warm days. They tolerate the transplant painlessly.

Vegetative propagation (cuttings, dividing a bush) is most acceptable due to its simplicity, accessibility, and ease. It also always retains its original maternal qualities. Seeds are used if it is not possible to purchase planting material. Such propagation is also beneficial if you have purchased a package with a mixture of different Brunner, this way you can simultaneously obtain many different varieties and colors.

Reproduction

The main method of propagation of perennials is vegetative, using pieces of rhizomes. It is best to divide the bush in August, when the plant has not only finished blooming, but also sprouted renewal shoots and flower stalks for the next year. The bush is dug up, the leaf mass is cut off, leaving a stump of stems and root petioles (10–12 cm), divided into parts according to the collapse of the rhizome. In a new place, dig a hole, water it with water, and after absorbing the moisture, plant the division without filling the root collar.

Plants emerge in the spring after transplanting pieces of rhizome

Brunnera sibirica can be propagated by pieces of rhizome without the aerial part, the main thing is that there is a bud for future growth.

If necessary, young plants can be replanted in the spring, but only with a large lump of earth, if possible without damaging the root system.

If you love decorative deciduous perennials, you will definitely like Brunnera. A plant with large beautiful leaves that retain their freshness and elegant appearance from April until late autumn can become a real decoration of the garden. In early spring, the bush is covered with a blue cloud of small flowers with a pleasant honey aroma. The perennial is often confused with its relative, the forget-me-not, as evidenced by its popular name, forget-me-not.

Decorative deciduous perennial lost in time

Brunnera is a true herbaceous perennial, capable of growing in one place for more than 10 years, forming dense thickets without degenerating or shredding the leaves. Perhaps the powerful energy of growth and self-preservation is due to the fact that it belongs to the relict representatives of the flora. This is a speck of dust from the past that has survived to this day and remembers what the planet’s vegetation was like more than 5 million years ago.

Science knows only a few species of this plant; two are of interest to gardeners.

1. Brunnera macrophylla is common in the Caucasus. It forms a short rhizome, from which basal leaves grow on tall petioles and stems up to 60 cm high, forming a spreading bush. The rosette leaves are large, smaller on the side shoots, the leaf blade is elongated, heart-shaped, green, somewhat wrinkled, pubescent with small hairs on both sides.
2. Brunnera sibirica is similar to its Caucasian relative, but does not form bushes, but continuous thickets. Its leaves are even larger and more spectacular, it is distinguished by early flowering and cold resistance - this is reflected in its Siberian character. The only drawback that reduces the popularity of the crop in floriculture is the loss of decorativeness after flowering. This distinguishes the Siberian variety from the large-leaved variety, which produces fresh foliage throughout the growing season.

The perennial blooms from the end of April, throwing out paniculate inflorescences covered with blue flowers, similar to forget-me-nots. The only difference is the color of the pharynx (eye): the brunnera flower is white, while the forget-me-not is yellow.

This is interesting! The perennial is a real thunderstorm for mice. Rodents, like a moth to a fire, go to the rhizome of brunnera, and just like moths, they die from its poisonous composition.

Popular varieties

Brunnera macrophylla is of interest to breeders - it is on its basis that unusual variegated varieties have been bred. Their main advantage is that even after flowering they do not lose their attractiveness, and in some garden forms it is the leaves that are the main decoration for which the crop is actually grown.

• Brunnera macrophylla Jack Frost is an elegant variety loved by flower growers. From afar, the leaves appear to be covered with frost - the silvery leaf blade dotted with green veins looks so unusual. It blooms profusely and for a long time (May – June), has a neat bush that keeps its shape well.
  Recognizable variety Jack Frost
• Brunnera largeleaf variety Variegata is so named because of its variegated color - the leaf blade has an unusual white border, which extends like tongues onto the dark green canvas. The leaves are large, slightly wrinkled, and heart-shaped. The bush is compact (up to 30 cm in height), does not fall apart, and looks good in flower borders.
  Variegated variety Variegata
• Brunner's Hudspen Cream is similar in description to Variegata, only the border along the edge of the sheet is not white, but cream. The bushes are low (up to 25 cm) and neat; during flowering, paniculate peduncles covered with pale blue flowers rise above the leaf mass by 10–15 cm. An adult perennial crop grows in diameter up to 60 cm.
  
• Brunnera Looking Glass is another variegated and very elegant variety. On the silvery leaf blade, the light green veins are almost invisible; they are slightly pressed into the wrinkled leaf, giving the appearance of a marble surface. The plant blooms in early spring, and if the weather is favorable, again in the fall. The variety grows a compact bush, not exceeding 25–30 cm, and has excellent winter hardiness.
  Silver-marbled leaves of the Looking Glass variety
• The Millennium Zilber variety is recognizable by its large heart-shaped leaves of rich green color, covered with silver spots.

Decorative use

Gardeners love Brunnera for its unpretentiousness and decorativeness; it looks interesting as a green background for beautiful flowering plants. What are the uses for perennials?

• In the curbs. Based on the fact that the bush is compact, grows quickly, and holds its shape well, it is planted along the edge of garden paths and flower beds, as a lower tier in raised flower beds.
• In mixborders. Lush greenery serves as a good background for tall, beautifully flowering perennials and is used in group plantings with other decorative foliage plants (fern, mountain goat weed, wild garlic). Like hosta, it grows well in shady flower beds.
• In rockeries, relief gardens. A subalpine type crop is planted as a ground cover plant in low, moist places, next to an artificial pond.

Brunnera sibirica is not so decorative, but the shade-tolerant culture is indispensable for the northern and shaded areas of the garden. As it grows, it densely covers the soil, crowds out weeds, forming a continuous green carpet.

Features of cultivation

Brunnera macrophylla is one of the most unpretentious plants in the garden, planting and caring for which with proper agricultural technology is reduced to a minimum. Resistance to growing for many years in a row in the same place, as well as the tendency to grow rapidly, forces gardeners to keep plantings under control, preventing them from taking over larger and larger areas.

Note! The species Brunnera is more resistant to adverse conditions than the varietal variety. In regions with humid summers, it does not need watering or fertilizing.

Selecting a location

The natural habitat of the crop is forest edges, river valleys, subalpine meadows. The perennial loves moist clay soils that retain moisture well and light partial shade. Although the plant is considered shade-tolerant, it is better that it receives its portion of the sun in the morning, otherwise the stems will stretch and the color of the leaves will fade. You can plant Brunnera in a well-lit flowerbed, but in this case you should worry about watering.

Planting and care

After planting brunnera, caring for it consists of timely removal of weeds, loosening, watering if necessary, and removal of leaves and flower stalks that have lost their decorative properties.

In early spring, in order to stimulate vegetation and the growth of large, succulent leaves with intense color, the perennial is fed with complete fertilizers containing the NPK complex in balanced quantities. Granules (100 g/m²) are scattered over melting snow so that they dissolve and are absorbed into the ground with moisture.

Note! In dry summers without watering, the leaves may dry out and turn brown. In this case, it is better to trim them and water them. By the end of summer, the flower will produce young shoots.

Reproduction

The main method of propagation of perennials is vegetative, using pieces of rhizomes. It is best to divide the bush in August, when the plant has not only finished blooming, but also sprouted renewal shoots and flower stalks for the next year. The bush is dug up, the leaf mass is cut off, leaving a stump of stems and root petioles (10–12 cm), divided into parts according to the collapse of the rhizome. In a new place, dig a hole, water it with water, and after absorbing the moisture, plant the division without filling the root collar.

Brunnera sibirica can be propagated by pieces of rhizome without the aerial part, the main thing is that there is a bud for future growth.

If necessary, young plants can be replanted in the spring, but only with a large lump of earth, if possible without damaging the root system.

Brunnera macrofolia:

Nowadays, garden design often uses unpretentious perennial plants that require almost no care. Among them is Brunner ( Brunnera) from the Burachnikov family is far from in last place. We grow two types: large-leaved ( B. macrophylla) and Siberian ( B. sibirica) Brunner.

This plant is considered winter-hardy, grows and begins to bloom very early, when there is still little greenery in the garden. It looks simply magnificent thanks to its beautiful large leaves (especially in variegated varieties). Forget-me-not (the popular name for the culture) is not called that for nothing; its medium-sized blue flowers with a pleasant aroma are very similar to forget-me-nots. By the way, both plants belong to the same family.

Brunnera macrophylla "Jack Frost"

Where to plant Brunnera?

The culture is not too demanding on where it grows. But when planted in partially shaded areas (sun in the morning, shade in the afternoon), on clay soils, it will grow faster and look more luxurious. In this case, the plants do not even need watering. They grow worse in full shade.

Planted in the sun, and even in the absence of regular watering, the forget-me-not can wither and even shed its leaves.

When watering is resumed, they usually grow back. Brunnera feels fine if it is planted under fruit trees, near ponds, near the northern wall of the house, and is not afraid of water flowing from the roof during rain. This culture does not like too fertile soils and excessively abundant nutrition (especially fresh manure). It grows in one place for a long time - about 15 years.

Reproduction of forget-me-nots

Dividing the Brunnera macrophylla bush. Towards the end of summer, the bushes are dug up with a clod of earth, the shoots are cut off, leaving stumps. After this, the bush is dipped into a container of water to remove soil from the roots and divided into parts. Delenki should be planted as quickly as possible in a permanent place, so as not to dry out their root system.

Transplanting in late summer is usually more successful than replanting in spring. But if necessary, the bush can be divided in the spring, then during the summer it is necessary to monitor the soil moisture and, in the hottest weather, shade the young plants with covering material. Overmoistening, by the way, is also unacceptable. For variegated varieties, this method, unlike the seed method, allows you to preserve all the characteristics of the mother plant.

Reproduction of Brunnera sibirica. In the second half of summer, powerful rhizomes are dug up, divided into pieces (5-6 centimeters) with a viable bud, planted (depth about 3 centimeters), and watered. Rooted young plants usually bloom the following year. Forget-me-nots of this species are not planted in spring.

Growing brunnera from seeds. Fruits with seeds ripen by early June. Seeds need long-term (2-3 months) stratification, so it is better to plant them before winter. Under favorable conditions, young plants will begin to bloom in the 3rd year. Self-seeding happens.

Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sea Heart’ Brunnera macrophylla ‘Looking Glass’

Care

Usually there are no difficulties. If the planting site is chosen correctly, Brunnera grows quickly and clogs not only weeds, but also neighboring plants. To avoid this, plants are limited when planting, leaving a sufficiently large area for nutrition. After flowering is completed (lasts more than 20 days), withered leaves and peduncles are removed. Towards the end of summer the leaves will grow back.

Brunnera macrophylla does not lose its foliage after flowering and looks attractive until late autumn. It grows more slowly, so young plants must be weeded without deep loosening (the root system is powerful, but located close to the surface).

If the plants are planted in an elevated open area, it is better to mulch the plantings. When flower stalks reappear at the end of summer, it is recommended to remove them so that the plants are not weakened before wintering. Before winter (if there is no snow), it is advisable to cover the forget-me-not bushes with mulch. In the spring, after the onset of heat, the cover must be removed and the soil should be loosened superficially.

Diseases and pests

The culture does not get sick often. But with excessive watering and in rainy summers, the Siberian brunnera may be affected by brown spot or powdery mildew. The large-leaved variety hardly suffers from these diseases. Forget-me-not pests are also not too fond of them. Only occasionally do aphids, whiteflies, and slugs attack.

Forcing brunners

If you transplant bushes with a large clump into deep flowerpots in the fall, then in the second half of December you will be able to admire the modest but very cute flowers of false forget-me-not. To do this, after transplanting, water the plants and remove the flowerpots in a shaded area of ​​the flower garden until real frost. After which they are brought into a cool but bright room (temperature about +5 degrees) and periodically watered until the shoots begin to grow. After this, the temperature is raised to +10 degrees.

We select neighbors

Hostas, ferns, Rogersia, astilbe, heuchera, hellebore, lungwort are well suited.

Brunnera macrophylla "Jack Frost" with "partners" in the flower garden - hostas and heuchera

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Ornamental perennials that do not require complex care are becoming increasingly popular in gardens. Brunnera (lat. Brunnera) is a plant that is amazing in its unpretentiousness, willingly filling problem areas in the garden under the shady crowns of trees. Brunnera gives a special charm to a spring area that has not yet been painted with colors with its delicate blue blooms.

The striking external similarity of the flowers determined the viability of the old name of the plant “forget-me-not”, however, the flowers of brunnera are larger, without aroma, although of the same amazing shade, forming a blue cloud against the background of decorative, lush greenery.

Brunnera macrofolia

Description

Brunnera is a genus of plants represented by rhizomatous herbaceous perennials of the Borachnikov family. It has whole large leaves and forget-me-not flowers. Inflorescences are paniculate or corymbose. The dry fruit includes four nuts.

In spring, in May, flower stalks are the first to appear. Abundant flowering continues for a month, after which the foliage mass grows intensively. In autumn, under favorable growing conditions, Brunnera may bloom again.

Decorative species and varieties

Of the three types known today, only two are used in landscape design:

Brunnera macrofolia(lat. B. macrophylla) grows in the Caucasus. It is a branched bush with a powerful superficial rhizome. The spreading leafy stems lengthen to 40 cm by the end of flowering; they are pubescent and rough to the touch. The leaves are basal, oblong, oval-heart-shaped, pointed, two-colored - the upper dark green color is replaced by a grayish lower one. Inflorescences are paniculate-corymbose. Decorative from April until the first significant frost, when the leaves die off. During the season, the bush looks elegant, as new leaves appear constantly and regularly. Garden forms are valued for their wide, beautiful, variegated heart-shaped leaves.

Brunnera macrofolia

Brunnera sibirica(lat. B. sibirica) found in Altai. Externally, it is larger and more spectacular than large-leaved. It is distinguished by a long rhizome, single stems with sparse pubescence, up to 60 cm in height. Instead of bushes, it forms dense deciduous thickets. After flowering, the leaves dry out and become covered with dark spots. New ones appear at the end of summer and last until frost. As a forest plant, it prefers shady places with high humidity.

Photo gallery of species

Growing and care

A correctly chosen place for planting Brunnera, taking into account humidity and shade, can greatly facilitate subsequent care for it, which is already quite simple. Brunnera grows easily in the most problematic shady areas of the garden, where most plants feel uncomfortable. When positioned well, it grows instantly, suppressing weeds and neighboring plants. To avoid this, it is better to limit the landing site to a certain area.

In the garden, Brunnera should be placed in places where it receives direct sunlight in the morning and the second half of the day is spent in the shade. In heavily shaded places, plants lose their decorative effect and stretch out; when placed in full sun, it is necessary to maintain sufficient humidity in the air and soil, which is possible if there is a reservoir nearby. In hot summers, Brunnera does not survive in sunny areas. The plant prefers constantly moist soils. For large-leaved brunnera, their humidity should be moderate.

Brunner in the shade of trees

Too rich, nutritious soils encourage prolonged foliage growth that differs from the plant's usual seasonal rhythm. This culture generally does not like excessive fertility or abundant nutrition. Brunnera does not need additional feeding; the rapid growth of leaves caused by it even harms the plant. Do not use fresh manure for fertilization.

The powerful rhizomes of Brunnera sibirica intertwine, preventing the growth of weeds. This eliminates weeding, suggesting only the need to trim leaves that have lost their decorative effect. Properly planted plants of this species do not require additional care.

The situation is different with Brunnera macrophylla, which grows rather slowly and has little resistance to weeds, especially long-rhizome perennials. In this case, timely weeding is simply necessary. The superficial branched rhizomes do not allow the plantings to be loosened; the plant does not need watering or fertilizing. To avoid loosening, the soil should be well prepared before planting. It is recommended to mulch plantings in open, elevated areas. It is better to remove secondary flower stalks at the end of summer; they weaken the plant before wintering.

Young brunnera bush

In old, overgrown bushes, the rhizomes may protrude, exposing the middle of the plant, so they must be divided periodically. In good conditions, Brunnera can grow in one place for a long time - up to 15 years.

This plant is a true winter-hardy perennial, withstands frosts down to -30 C. Brunner leaves of any kind do not save for the winter. Before winter, especially in the absence of snow, it is advisable to cover the bushes with mulch. In spring, the cover should be removed immediately after the onset of heat and the soil should be loosened superficially.

Reproduction

Brunnera propagates by seeds (self-seeding is possible) and vegetatively (by dividing the bush or rhizomes).

The simplest method is vegetative, using rhizome segments with renewal buds. When planting rhizomes in holes, they are not deeply buried, being placed superficially.

A section of Brunnera rhizome for propagation

Seed propagation of Brunnera is possible, however, decorative variegated forms can retain the original characteristics of the mother plant exclusively through vegetative propagation.

The division of rhizomes is carried out after the formation of flower buds of the future period, at the very end of summer. Rooting occurs in the fall, young cuttings successfully overwinter and bloom the following spring.

Due to the peculiarities of the vertical, rather short rhizome, Brunnera macrophylla is most often propagated by dividing the bush. Towards the end of summer, they dig it up, keeping a lump of earth, remove the above-ground part and wash the roots in water. The bush, cleared of soil, is divided into parts with a sharp knife, following the natural collapse of the roots. It is better to plant the delenki as quickly as possible in a permanent place, before their root system dries out. Autumn replanting is usually more successful than spring replanting. If necessary, the bush can be divided in the spring; in this case, during the summer it is necessary to control the soil moisture, and in the heat, shade the young plants with suitable material. Overmoistening is also unacceptable.

Young brunners obtained by dividing the rhizomes

Reproduction of Siberian brunnera occurs only in autumn, in areas of branched rhizomes. At the end of summer they are dug up, the superficial, powerful rhizomes, freed from the ground and old parts, are simply broken into separate pieces. Any section of the rhizome must have a bud for future growth. Such a division is planted in a predetermined place, preferably marked with a sign. It is enough to slightly deepen it and sprinkle it with earth. The soil is slightly compacted to improve contact with the roots and watered immediately. Young plants usually bloom the following year.

Growing brunnera from seeds is rarely used. The seeds ripen by early June and require long-term stratification (up to 3 months), so it is better to plant them in open ground in winter. Under the most favorable conditions, new plants will bloom only in the 3rd year. Self-seeding possible.

Forcing Brunnera is possible if you transplant the bushes with a large clump into a deep container in the fall and follow simple rules; already on New Year’s Eve you can admire the modest and lovely flowers. To do this, after transplantation, the plants are watered as needed, the flowerpots are kept in a shaded place in the garden until real frost, after which they are moved to a cool, bright room, with the start of shoot growth, a temperature of about +10 C is provided, continuing moderate regular watering.

Blue clouds brunners

Propagating Brunnera by dividing the bush is safer than rooting part of the rhizome. Division is done as carefully as possible, keeping the soil on the roots. It is especially difficult for varietal plants grown in the shade to take root.

Diseases and pests

The crop gets sick quite rarely. With excessive watering or in rainy summers, low resistance of Brunnera Siberia to brown spot, powdery mildew, traditional enemies of plants that prefer shady and humid places, has been noted. Large-leaved varieties do not suffer from these diseases.

In addition, whiteflies, aphids, and sometimes slugs can attack greens. But in general, pests are not too fond of this plant, which is stable in all respects. The succulent rhizomes of Brunnera, on the one hand, attract mice, and on the other hand, poison them. Therefore, the garden in which Brunnera has settled may not be afraid of rodent invasions.

Abundant spring bloom

Use in landscape design

Spectacular compositions of unpretentious plants such as brunnera are in great demand in gardens. A variety of compositions using its dense, decorative bushes fit wonderfully into the most unexpected landscape projects.

Brunnera macrophylla is consistently spectacular throughout the season, does not grow, holds its shape well, is practically not affected by diseases, therefore it is excellent for decorating borders, as well as permanent decorative group compositions as part of mixborders.

Due to the loss of decorativeness by mid-summer, Brunnera sibirica is of less interest in the design of plantings. Its dense, unpretentious thickets are indispensable when decorating shady, waterlogged areas.

Brunner on the site

Partners on the site are Colchis weed weed, primrose, bear's onion, hellebore, ferns, etc. Blue flower clouds brunners harmonize perfectly with white, yellow, blue, purple spring flowers: hyacinths, tulips, white and yellow daffodils, blue muscari, multi-colored spurge are suitable . They look great next to shrubs, ornamental foliage plants, especially with the generally recognized “queens of shade”: ferns, hostas, astilbe, good combinations with heuchera, Rogers, hellebore, lungwort.

Brunnera goes well with perennials, these are, first of all, dicentra, doronicum, decorative onions, swimsuit, irises, primroses. Aquillegia is considered the most successful companion for its ability to well decorate its foliage that withers in unfavorable conditions.

Low-growing Brunnera varieties form an unpretentious, beautiful border along the paths around the house.

The moisture-loving brunnera is often planted on the shady banks of artificial or natural reservoirs and dry streams. The green, often variegated leaves of Brunnera create original ensembles in rock gardens next to red-hued stones.

Brunner and hosta in the border

Creating a “forget-me-not paradise” in an ordinary garden is not a problem. To design a clearing of forget-me-nots, it is enough to plant brunnera in the background, in front of it are alpine, colored forget-me-nots, and in front place a creeping perennial forget-me-not. They all bloom simultaneously in different shades of blue, creating an atmosphere of complete serenity.

Brunnera is attractive not only for its flowers; its multi-colored, variegated leaves are very expressive in themselves. If you approach the design of your site with imagination, you can choose varieties with decorative leaves of all shades of green, harmonizing or contrasting in color. You can use some varieties of junipers, spectacular shade-tolerant crops, and hydrangeas.