Overview
Omphalodes verna 'Alba' is a herbaceous perennial in the genus Omphalodes, part of the Boraginaceae family. Omphalodes verna 'Alba' grows best in partial shade and shade, and tolerates well-drained and humus-rich soils and neutral and slightly acidic pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include groundcover, rock gardens and woodland gardens. It is native to Europe.
About
Omphalodes verna, the creeping navelwort or blue-eyed-Mary, is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant in the genus Omphalodes belonging to the family Boraginaceae.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Omphalodes verna
About the genus
Omphalodes (navelwort) is a genus of flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae. It includes eleven species native to Europe and western Asia. In spring they produce blue or white flowers similar to forget-me-nots.
Wikipedia contributors, "Omphalodes", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Omphalodes
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Omphalodes
- Sunlight
- partial shade, shade
- Soil type
- well-drained, humus-rich
- Soil pH
- neutral, slightly acidic
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Aspect
- north, east, west
- Exposure
- sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Omphalodes verna 'Alba' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- herbaceous perennial
- Suggested uses
- groundcover, rock gardens, woodland gardens
- Native to
- Europe
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Omphalodes verna 'Alba'
- Cultivation
- Prefers humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Avoid full sun and dry conditions.
- Pruning
- Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
- Propagation
- Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but less common.
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Omphalodes verna 'Alba'?
Prefers humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in partial shade. Avoid full sun and dry conditions.
Where is the best place to plant Omphalodes verna 'Alba'?
Omphalodes verna 'Alba' prefers partial shade and shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Omphalodes verna 'Alba' need?
Omphalodes verna 'Alba' grows best in well-drained and humus-rich soil. It prefers neutral and slightly acidic soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Omphalodes verna 'Alba'?
Cut back after flowering to maintain shape and encourage fresh growth.
Is Omphalodes verna 'Alba' hardy in the UK?
Omphalodes verna 'Alba' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.
How do I propagate Omphalodes verna 'Alba'?
Division in spring or autumn; seed propagation possible but less common.
