(Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost') BRUN-er-ah mak-roe-FIL-lah Genus:  Brunnera

This woodland plant is valued for its flowers and its heart-shaped, ground-covering leaves. Its small blue flowers go nicely with ephemeral bulbs in mid- to late spring,  as the enlarging leaves block out the ripening bulb foliage. 'Jack Frost' can take dry summers and wet winters. This cultivar is prized for its improved tolerance of heat and sun. -Marty Hair, Regional Picks: Upper Midwest, Fine Gardening issue# 127

Noteworthy Characteristics: 

Highly valued for striking silver variegated foliage. Powder blue flowers hover over the plant in spring.

Care: 

Remove ragged foliage in late fall and snip off the spent flower stalks in early summer to keep this plant looking its best.

Propagation: 

Sow seeds in container in spring. B. macrophylla should be divided in winter.

Problems: 

None serious, but watch out for too much sun or hot sites.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Spread 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Growth Pace Slow Grower Light Part Shade Only Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Low Characteristics Showy Foliage Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Blue Foliage Color Variegated Foliage Uses Beds and Borders, Ground Covers Style Cottage Garden, Woodland Garden Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Type Perennials