Cape Forget-me-not
Anchusa capensis 'Blue Angel'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
10 inches
Width
10 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Biennial/Annual
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Anchusa capensis, commonly known as Cape Forget-me-not, is a biennial or short-lived perennial, often grown as an annual. It forms a low mound of hairy, lance-shaped leaves. The 'Blue Angel' cultivar is noted for its profusion of intense, gentian-blue, forget-me-not-like flowers that bloom over a long period, attracting bees and other pollinators.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
- Transplant seedlings when they are strong enough, typically after 4-6 weeks.
- Fertilize with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4 weeks during active growth.
- Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushiness and remove dead stems.
- Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun for vibrant blue flowers and vigorous growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming
- Provide well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Apply a light mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot ❌
- Don’t disturb roots during flowering to prevent stress
- Refrain from using heavy, clay-based soil without amendments
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Cape Forget-me-not questions
What zones can Cape Forget-me-not grow in?
Cape Forget-me-not is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Cape Forget-me-not deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Cape Forget-me-not, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Cape Forget-me-not bloom?
Cape Forget-me-not typically blooms in early summer through mid-summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Cape Forget-me-not need full sun?
Cape Forget-me-not does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Cape Forget-me-not drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Cape Forget-me-not handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Cape Forget-me-not 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.
