Overview
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Brunnera, part of the Boraginaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden.
About
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' is a deciduous perennial that typically reaches heights of 30 to 40 cm. In spring, it produces clusters of small white flowers reminiscent of forget-me-nots, which rise above its coarse, heart-shaped green foliage.
About the genus
Brunnera are herbaceous perennials that grow from rhizomes, characterized by their large, heart-shaped or ovate leaves at the base. In spring, they produce clusters of small, vivid blue flowers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Brunnera
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- North-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Herbaceous Perennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring'
- Cultivation
- Best grown in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained. A cool site in partial shade is preferred, but this selection will take sun if sufficiently moist at the root
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by division in early spring or autumn
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring'?
Best grown in moderately fertile, humus-rich soil that is moist but well-drained. A cool site in partial shade is preferred, but this selection will take sun if sufficiently moist at the root.
Where is the best place to plant Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring'?
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' need?
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
How do I prune Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring'?
No pruning required.
How big does Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' grow?
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' hardy in the UK?
Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring' has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Brunnera macrophylla 'Betty Bowring'?
Propagate by division in early spring or autumn.