Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver’
£6.95
A perennial with very large, heart shaped, shimmering silver leaves which last all season. Airy sprays of forget-me-not like bright blue flowers appear in mid to late spring. Height 30cm. Spread 60cm. Shade/part shade. Hardy.
Description
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver’ is a standout perennial with large, shimmering silver leaves and delicate sprays of bright blue flowers. This low-maintenance plant thrives in shaded areas, making it a perfect choice for woodland gardens or shady borders. Follow this planting and care guide to help Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver’ flourish in your garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
- Spring: Plant Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver’ in early spring to allow the roots to establish before the growing season begins.
- Autumn: Early autumn is also a suitable time to plant, giving your Brunnera a chance to settle before winter dormancy.
Site Selection
- Sunlight: Brunnera thrives in partial to full shade, making it an excellent choice for areas with limited sunlight.
- Soil: Ensure well-drained soil that remains consistently moist. Adding organic matter, such as compost or leaf mould, will improve soil quality and retain necessary moisture for Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver.’
Planting Instructions
- Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This gives the roots of your Brunnera room to spread.
- Enrich the Soil: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to boost fertility and improve drainage.
- Planting: Position the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently and firm the soil to eliminate air pockets.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and support root establishment.
Watering Requirements
- Growing Season: Keep the soil consistently moist during the active growing period, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
- Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy, only providing moisture if the soil becomes very dry.
Feeding
- Spring: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early spring to encourage vigorous growth and enhance the bright foliage of Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver.’
- Mid-Summer: An additional light feeding in mid-summer can help maintain the plant’s health and vibrancy.
Pruning
- Deadheading: Remove spent flower stems after the blooms fade to keep your Brunnera tidy and redirect energy to its striking foliage.
- Autumn Pruning: Cut back any damaged or dead foliage in autumn to prepare the plant for winter dormancy and promote fresh growth the following spring.
Mulching
- Spring: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as bark or leaf mould, around the base of Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver.’ This helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Winter: Mulching in late autumn protects the roots from cold temperatures and frost heaving.
Supporting the Plant
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver’ has a compact growth habit and does not require staking. However, ensure it is planted in a sheltered location if your garden is prone to strong winds.
Final Tips
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver’ is an ideal choice for low-maintenance gardeners who value stunning foliage and delicate spring blooms. By planting your Brunnera in a shady, moist location with enriched soil, you’ll enjoy its silver leaves and charming blue flowers throughout the season. Regular mulching, moderate watering, and occasional feeding will ensure Brunnera macrophylla ‘Sterling Silver’ thrives, becoming a star in your garden design.
Additional information
Pot Size | |
---|---|
Plant Botanical Type | Perennial (herbaceous) |
Flower Colour | Blue |
Leaf Colour | Silver, Green |
Varigated Leaf | No |
Scent | No |
Height | 0.3m |
Spread | 0.6m |
Blooms/foliage interest in | Spring |
Evergreen | No |
Hardiness | mild winter to – 5C |
Container | Borders and Containers |
Sun/shade | Prefers partial shade |
Soil Type | Loam (normal) |
Soil PH | Neutral |
Drainage | Moist, Well drained soil |
Hazerdous | No |
Insect Attraction | Bees and Butterflies |
Rosemary T. (verified owner) –
good big plant
Jan G. (verified owner) –
Beautiful plants
Arrived in good condition