The Story
Plant Bio
Brunnera macrophylla, commonly known as Siberian bugloss, is a clump-forming perennial prized for its large, heart-shaped, basal leaves and airy sprays of small, forget-me-not-like blue flowers in spring. It thrives in shady, moist woodland conditions.
The 'Emerald Mist' cultivar is distinguished by its large, heart-shaped leaves featuring a heavy silver overlay with intricate green veining and a distinct, thin green margin. This striking foliage provides long-lasting interest in the shade garden.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
15 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Water
Moist
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Caucasus, Western Asia
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Bloom period
Early spring – Mid-spring
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds or divisions into moist soil in early spring
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist
- Provide shade during hot summer months for best growth
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture
- Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced fertilizer
- Divide every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained, moist soil with dappled shade for optimal growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
- Divide every few years to promote healthy growth
- Provide shade during hot afternoons
Don't
- Avoid drought conditions; water regularly ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun, which can scorch leaves
- Don’t let soil dry out completely
- Avoid heavy, poorly-drained soils
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss questions
What zones can Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss grow in?
Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss deer resistant?
Yes — Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss bloom?
Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss need full sun?
Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss does best in part shade.
More Brunnera to compare

Jack Frost Siberian Bugloss
Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost'

Queen of Hearts Brunnera
Brunnera macrophylla 'Queen of Hearts'

Sea Heart Brunnera
Brunnera macrophylla 'Sea Heart'

Heartleaf Alkanet Siberian Bugloss
Brunnera macrophylla 'Heartleaf Alkanet'

Looking Glass Brunnera
Brunnera macrophylla 'Looking Glass'

Siberian Bugloss 'Betty Bowring'
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Emerald Mist Siberian Bugloss with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

















