Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’

Description

Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’ is a charming perennial prized for its heart-shaped, green leaves with creamy-white margins and delightful sprays of bright blue, forget-me-not-like flowers in spring. Ideal for shaded borders, woodland gardens, and underplanting, this plant combines both ornamental foliage and floral interest. Follow this complete planting guide to help your Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’ thrive.

PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE

Best Planting Time

• Spring: Plant Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’ in spring, when the soil is warming and easier to work. This allows the plant to establish strong roots before the warmer months.
• Early Autumn: Alternatively, plant in early autumn so roots can develop before winter dormancy, encouraging strong growth the following spring.

Site Selection

• Sunlight: Brunnera flourishes in partial to full shade. Select a location that receives dappled sunlight or shade during the hottest part of the day.
• Soil: Opt for moist but well-drained soil, rich in organic matter. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging, but ensure consistent moisture levels are maintained for best results.

Planting Instructions

1. Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep.
2. Enrich the Soil: Mix compost or leaf mould into the soil to boost organic content and retain moisture.
3. Planting: Position your Brunnera so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm the soil.
4. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist during the first growing season.

Watering Requirements

• Active Growth: During spring and summer, keep the soil evenly moist. Brunnera prefers consistent moisture, especially when flowering.
• Dormant Period: Reduce watering in autumn and winter, watering only if the soil begins to dry out significantly.

Feeding

• Spring Feeding: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertiliser or mulch with organic compost in early spring to support fresh foliage and flower development.
• Seasonal Boost: If desired, feed again lightly in midsummer to maintain healthy leaf colour and vigour.

Pruning

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower stems after flowering to encourage tidy growth and maintain the plant’s neat appearance.
• Foliage Maintenance: Cut back any damaged or dead leaves throughout the season to keep Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’ looking fresh and vibrant.

Mulching

• Spring Mulch: Apply a 5cm layer of organic mulch in spring to conserve moisture, enrich the soil, and suppress weeds.
• Winter Protection: Reapply mulch in late autumn to help insulate roots and protect from freezing conditions.

Supporting the Plant

Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’ has a naturally low, spreading habit and generally does not require staking. Ensure plants have enough space to spread—about 50cm—to avoid overcrowding and promote air circulation.

Final Tips

Brunnera macrophylla ‘Hadspen Cream’ is an easy-care perennial that brightens shady corners with its creamy variegated foliage and delicate spring blooms. By planting in rich, moist soil and ensuring the area remains shaded, you can enjoy this plant’s beauty season after season. Add this Brunnera to woodland borders, shaded beds, or underplanting schemes for reliable, elegant colour and texture. Repeating ‘Hadspen Cream’ throughout a shady garden creates a harmonious, cohesive planting scheme.