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If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, shade-loving plant that brings color and texture to your garden, Brunnera macrophylla is an excellent choice. Known for its heart-shaped, silvery-green leaves and tiny blue spring flowers, this Brunnera perennial thrives in cool, shaded spots where many other plants struggle.
One of the best features of Brunnera macrophylla is that it’s deer resistant, making it ideal for woodland gardens or rural areas where browsing animals are a problem. It’s also an effective ground cover, spreading gently to form lush, dense foliage that suppresses weeds without becoming aggressive. Many gardeners ask if Brunnera macrophylla is invasive — rest assured, it spreads slowly and remains easy to control with proper care.
There are several stunning Brunnera macrophylla varieties to explore. ‘Jack Frost’ features frosty silver leaves with green veins, while ‘Looking Glass’ has almost entirely silver foliage. These varieties are not only visually striking but also hardy in most temperate zones.
When it comes to plant care, consistency is key. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and provide rich, humus-based soil with good drainage. Avoid hot, direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
For Brunnera companion plants, pair it with hostas, ferns, heucheras, or astilbes — all thrive in similar conditions and create a lush, layered look.
Interested in propagation? You can multiply your plants by propagating Brunnera through division in early spring or fall. Simply dig up the clump, separate healthy sections, and replant them immediately.
Beautiful, dependable, and easy to grow, Brunnera macrophylla brings elegance and long-lasting charm to any shade garden.
Brunnera macrophylla grows best in partial to full shade. It can handle some morning sun, but strong afternoon sunlight may scorch the leaves and make them lose their silver markings.
This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of loamy soil with added compost works best. Dry or sandy soil will stress the plant, so keeping the ground evenly moist is important.
To keep the foliage fresh, provide steady moisture and protect it from harsh sun. Removing any damaged or old leaves during the season encourages new growth. Mulching around the plant helps hold moisture and keeps the leaves from getting splashed with soil.
Brunnera is not known to be toxic to pets or children, but it is still a good idea to discourage chewing or touching. Like many garden plants, it can cause mild stomach upset if eaten in large amounts.
While they look alike with their small blue flowers, they are different plants. Brunnera is a perennial with large, heart-shaped leaves that return every year. Forget-Me-Nots are often short-lived biennials or reseeding annuals, with smaller leaves and a shorter life cycle. Brunnera is usually chosen more for its foliage than its blooms, while Forget-Me-Nots are prized for their dense flower displays.
Last updated on Jun 06, 2026
Species suggested by: Dina Russell, 2022
Plant Profile compiled and written by: Team PlantShare
Contributors: Team PlantShare
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