Myosotis alpestris aka Alpine Forget Me Not

Myosotis alpestris is the alpine or mountain forget-me-not. It belongs to the borage family, Boraginaceae. Its native range spans Europe, southwestern Siberia and northern Iraq. It also grows wild in Britain and Ireland. This plant comes from temperate regions. In Britain, it is rare and grows in scattered sites. Recorded habitats include damp woods and meadows, often over basic rock.

This short-lived perennial forms small, upright clumps. It loses its leaves during the dormant season. Plants often stand about 0.7 feet [0.2 metres] tall. The RHS gives a broader height range of 0.3–1.6 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. It lists the same range for spread. Green, lance-shaped leaves bear soft hairs. They reach about 0.26 feet [0.08 metres] long. Small blue blooms crowd together in dense clusters. Each flower has a yellow centre. Chicago Botanic Garden also lists pink and white flowers. Bloom runs from spring into early summer. Its recorded months span March through June.

Grow this plant in full sun or partial shade. Soil should drain freely and have low to moderate fertility. The RHS lists chalk, loam and sand as suitable soils. Its stated pH preference is acid to neutral. The moisture range runs from dry to moist. Chicago Botanic Garden gives its water needs as moderate. Keep excess winter moisture away from the roots. The RHS rates its hardiness as H6. Chicago lists USDA zones 3–8. Plants reach their full size within two to five years.

Its small size suits rock gardens, gravel beds and containers. It also fits cottage gardens, borders and bed edges. Gardeners can plant it beneath roses and shrubs. The RHS also suggests wildlife gardens, banks and slopes. Sow seed in pots in a cold frame during spring. Cut plants back once flowering ends unless seed is needed. Slugs and snails may damage plants. Powdery mildew and downy mildew can also occur.

Plants For A Future records no known edible uses. It also lists no known hazards. That does not establish that every use is safe. The same source records past medicinal uses of the whole plant. These include external use on wounds and for eye complaints. It also notes past use of leaf juice for nosebleeds. These records describe traditional uses, not proof of treatment safety. The source does not flag the plant as weedy.