Iberodes linifolia aka Whiteflower Navelwort

Iberodes linifolia is a small flowering annual in the borage family. Its native range covers southwestern Europe, including France, Spain, and Portugal. Gardeners also know it as Venus's navelwort or whiteflower navelwort. The older name Omphalodes linifolia appears in garden references. Its species name refers to leaves that look like flax. It grows best in a cool climate.

The plant grows fast and forms a bush of upright, branching stems. NC State gives a height of 1–1.3 feet [0.3–0.4 metres]. Its spread there is about 0.3–0.5 feet [0.1–0.15 metres]. The RHS gives broader limits for both height and spread. Its upper figure reaches about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres] for each. Narrow, lanceolate leaves have a blue-green or grey-green cast. Fine hairs cover the leaves, while the stems lack scent.

White to off-white flowers grow in loose racemes above the foliage. Each flower can measure about 0.6 inches [0.015 metres] across. They have a light scent and a long flowering season. Both sources place the main show in spring and summer. NC State also lists flowers in autumn. Bees and butterflies visit the blooms, which also suit cutting. The pale flowers and blue-green leaves offer contrast in small beds.

Grow it in full sun with moist soil that drains well. NC State also lists partial shade as a suitable light level. The RHS calls for soil with moderate fertility. Sand, loam, and clay can all suit it with good drainage. It tolerates acid, neutral, and alkaline soil, as well as drought. This makes it useful in dry gardens without requiring dry soil. NC State lists USDA zones 1–11 for this annual. That broad range does not establish its winter survival as a perennial.

Use it at border fronts, in pots, or in mass plantings. It also suits cottage gardens and spaces set aside for pollinators. Sow seeds in spring, since plants do not transplant well. It can self-seed and return in the same place. Cut plants back once flowering ends to shape their growth. Care needs are low, and neither source reports major disease problems. Watch for slugs and snails, which can damage plants.