Myosotis sylvatica aka Garden Forget Me Not

Myosotis sylvatica is the wood or garden forget-me-not. It belongs to the borage family, Boraginaceae. Its native range spans Madeira and temperate parts of Eurasia. It grows in woods and rocky places. Plants have spread beyond gardens in parts of North America. This short-lived perennial also grows as an annual or biennial. Gardeners can raise it from seed for spring colour.

The plant forms a dense tuft with upright growth. Most plants stand about 0.5–1 foot [0.15–0.30 m] tall. NC State gives a spread of 0.5–0.8 feet [0.15–0.25 m]. RHS gives upper height and spread limits of 1.6 feet [0.5 m]. Hair covers the plant, including its rough, simple leaves. The green to grey-green leaves have smooth edges. Their shape ranges from narrow and oblong to lance-shaped. Leaves grow in turn along the stems. Some foliage remains through winter. Creeping stem bases can root and form new plants.

Small blue flowers have five lobes and pale centres. These centres may be white or yellow. The blooms form tight clusters called cymes. Each flower measures about 0.03 feet [0.01 m] across. The main bloom season falls in April and May. RHS describes flowering from spring into early summer. A few flowers may also appear in midsummer. Bumblebees, small butterflies and dance flies visit the flowers. Dry fruit develops later, with fruit present in autumn.

Grow this plant in rich soil that stays moist. Good drainage suits it, though it tolerates brief shallow flooding. Loam and clay-loam work when they retain enough moisture. RHS also lists chalk soils and a broad pH range. It grows in sun or partial shade. Afternoon shade helps in places with hot summers. Sources rate its hardiness as USDA zones 3–8 and RHS H6. Care needs are low, and growth is moderate. Plants reach full size within one to two years.

Use it at border edges or among spring bulbs. It also suits pots, rock gardens and woodland planting. Colonies can cover damp ground or grow near ponds. Deer and rabbits tend to leave it alone. Plants seed freely and may spread with force. NC State reports noxious-weed listings in some Midwestern states. Remove spent blooms or old plants to limit seed spread. Serious pest problems are uncommon, but mildew and rust can occur.