Brunnera
Basic Information
Common Name: Brunnera
Scientific Name: Brunnera
Native Habitat: Woodlands of Eastern Europe, particularly Russia.
History / Discovery / Cultivator
Brunnera, commonly known as Siberian Bugloss or Heartleaf Brunnera, hails from the woodlands of Eastern Europe, primarily Russia. While not a plant with a particularly dramatic or well-documented “discovery,” its history lies in its gradual appreciation for its ornamental value. The scientific classification, Brunnera, honors Swiss botanist Samuel Brunner, reflecting its botanical study and categorization within scientific circles.
The plant’s journey into cultivated gardens began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Botanical gardens and nurseries recognized its potential as a shade-tolerant groundcover with attractive foliage and delicate, forget-me-not-like flowers. Its hardiness and adaptability to various conditions contributed to its increasing popularity.
One of the key figures in popularizing Brunnera is arguably Alan Bloom, a renowned British plantsman. Though he didn’t “discover” the species itself, Bloom’s introduction of variegated cultivars, most notably Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost,’ revolutionized its appeal. ‘Jack Frost,’ with its silver-veined leaves and contrasting green margins, quickly became a garden staple. This cultivar significantly broadened the plant’s use from a simple groundcover to a prized ornamental feature.
The selection of Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ involved keen observation and propagation expertise. Bloom recognized its superior foliage characteristics and successfully propagated it, making it available to gardeners worldwide. The plant’s success is also attributed to the work of breeders who continue to develop cultivars with varied foliage patterns, colors, and improved vigor.
Today, Brunnera remains a beloved choice for shady gardens, celebrated for its foliage interest, spring blooms, and relatively low maintenance requirements. Its history reflects a story of botanical exploration, horticultural selection, and the enduring appeal of plants that thrive in challenging environments. It has been embraced for its ability to brighten up shady areas and provide textural contrast in garden beds, demonstrating the power of cultivated varieties to elevate a species’ presence in horticulture. The plant also benefits from naturalizing easily when left to self seed, making it an excellent choice for areas with heavy ground cover and little sunlight.
Plant Care Summary
| Category | General Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Partial Shade | Avoid intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves. |
| Water | Moderate | Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells. |
| Humidity | Moderate | Generally tolerates average humidity levels. |
| Temp. Range | Hardy | Tolerates a wide range of temperatures; generally hardy in zones 3-8. |
| Soil Type | Well-draining | Prefers humus-rich soil that retains moisture. |
| Fertilizer | Light feeder | Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring. |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic | Generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. |
Botanical Insights
Adaptations
Brunnera’s adaptations are well-suited to its native woodland environment. Its large, heart-shaped leaves are adapted for capturing sunlight under a canopy of trees. The plant’s rhizomatous root system allows it to spread and colonize shaded areas efficiently. Its shade tolerance is its biggest adaptation, allowing it to flourish in environments where other plants struggle. Brunnera has also developed the ability to enter dormancy during periods of extreme drought or cold, ensuring its survival until more favorable conditions return.
Propagation Methods
Brunnera can be effectively propagated through division, seed, and root cuttings. Division is the most common method, typically done in spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and divide the root clump into sections, each with its own set of roots and leaves. Seed propagation is also possible but can be slow. Seeds should be sown fresh in the fall or stratified (cold-treated) before sowing in the spring. Root cuttings can be taken in late winter or early spring.
Toxicology
Brunnera is generally considered non-toxic to humans, cats, and dogs. However, it is always a good idea to prevent pets and children from ingesting any plant material. The plant does not produce any toxic substances that cause negative side effects if ingested.
Common Problems
Pests:
- Slugs
- Snails
- Aphids
Diseases:
- Powdery mildew
- Leaf spot
Other:
- Leaf scorch (due to excessive sun exposure)
- Crown rot (due to poorly draining soil)
- Plant decline (in overly dry conditions)
Rarity & Value
Rarity:
While the species Brunnera macrophylla is not considered rare, certain cultivars, especially those with unique variegation patterns or improved disease resistance, can be more difficult to find. Newer cultivars, limited propagation numbers and the whims of collector trends can also cause higher prices.
Value:
The value of Brunnera plants is typically influenced by factors such as the cultivar’s desirability, the size of the plant, and its overall health. Well-established plants of popular cultivars like ‘Jack Frost’ or ‘Alexander’s Great’ command higher prices. Strong variegation, plant size, and overall health contribute to the market value of a specimen.
