True Blue: Siberian Bugloss

“True Blue” is an old expression often used to describe a lasting friendship or relationship.  Merriam Webster website tells us “true blue” can be an adjective describing someone who is extremely loyal, devoted or dedicated to a person or a cause.  

There is additional information on the significance of flowers in the color BLUE… these blooms may signify qualities like trust, long term commitment, desire and love.  How lovely that the tiny blooms on the perennial Siberian Bugloss are “true blue” (AND beautiful!)

Early May in Wisconsin offers gardeners pockets of color in the garden; colorful spring daffodils and tulips remind us that winter weather MIGHT actually be finished for the moment.  But in early MAY most perennial plants are pushing new growth and foliage—not flowers.  

One exception: Siberian Bugloss, which flowers perfectly in a partial sun environment.  The individual flowers are teeny, but a vivid shade of BLUE!  Away from direct sunlight, the dainty blooms may appear to be a fluorescent BLUE. 

Siberian Bugloss is a terrific companion planting—shown here paired with Solomon’s Seal in our backyard.  In our front garden Siberian Bugloss complements Berberis thunbergii ‘Orange Rocket.’  (This compact shrub is rated as hardy in USDA Zones 4 – 9, and pushes coral colored foliage in spring; later this foliage shades to green, and in autumn—a deep burgundy.)

Although the BLUE flowers of Siberian Bugloss are tiny, they last a few weeks. Even after blooms fade, no deadheading is needed.  This plant has grown well in our home garden several years, and its lime green foliage remains until frost. 

Brunnera macrophylla is described as a clump-forming, shade-loving woodland garden herbaceous perennial, but it thrives in a part-sun environment as well.  

Apparently, it is distasteful to rabbits and insects since I have never observed plant damage from any pests.  It thrives in well drained, rich, organic soil. 

Rated as a USDA Zone 3 – 8 plant, it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.

Purchase a plant or two of Siberian Bugloss soon, and next spring, you’ll be enjoying those dainty “true blue” blooms!

M. Lynn Schmid,   Certified Master Gardener
 A.A.S. Landscape/Horticulture/Arboriculture