Siberian bugloss (Brunnera macrophylla 'Dawson's White')
Brunnera macrophylla 'Dawson's White', or Siberian bugloss, offers striking white-edged foliage and true blue spring flowers, ideal for low-maintenance shade gardens.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ is a celebrated herbaceous perennial, best known for its luminous, heart-shaped foliage featuring bold, irregular, creamy white variegation near the edges. This cultivar of Siberian bugloss brings essential light and texture to dark, woodland garden settings where few other plants thrive. Its aesthetic appeal lasts throughout the growing season, complemented by a delicate display of true blue, forget-me-not-like flowers in the spring.
This low-maintenance selection spreads slowly via creeping rhizomes, naturally forming dense, attractive ground covers over time. While the species is native to forested slopes, Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ requires consistently moist, organically rich soil and consistent part shade for optimal performance. Gardeners value this plant for its ability to brighten shady corners without demanding constant fuss.
Although the foliage of Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ remains the primary attraction, the ephemeral spring blooms are a welcome sight. Successfully growing Siberian bugloss means ensuring summer conditions are not excessively hot or humid, as foliage can scorch in intense mid-day sun. This durable perennial is an indispensable component for woodland gardens and shade borders.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Boraginaceae
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 3-8
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 1-1.5 ft
- Spread: 1-2 ft
- Bloom Time: April to May
- Bloom Description: Blue
- Sun Exposure: Part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Low
How to Grow
The best time to establish Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ is in spring or early fall, allowing the plant to settle its root system before summer stress. Locate your Siberian bugloss where it receives dappled or steady part shade; direct, hot afternoon sun will invariably cause leaf scorch, particularly damaging the white variegation. Soil preparation is key: aim for an average, well-drained medium that is rich in organic matter, mimicking its native woodland habitat.
Water management for Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ requires consistency. It needs medium moisture and generally dislikes drying out, though it tolerates slight dryness better than some other variegated cultivars. Avoid over-fertilization, as too much nitrogen can reduce the prominence of the white edging on the leaves. Little to no pruning is necessary outside of removing any foliage damaged by slugs or sun exposure late in the season.
As summer heat intensifies, especially in the US Southeast (warmer end of USDA Zones 7-9), be mindful that the plant prefers cooler summers and may struggle. Clumps will slowly expand through creeping rhizomes, eventually creating a dense ground cover effective at suppressing weeds. Be cautious if allowing plants to self-seed, as new seedlings of variegated forms may revert to all green foliage.
Landscape Uses
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ serves beautifully in mass plantings, acting as a dynamic ground cover under high canopy trees or along the north side of structures. Due to its striking, light-colored foliage, it functions perfectly as a living border accent, illuminating shaded pathways where darker green plants struggle. It is also recommended for group plantings or as a specimen where its texture can be appreciated close up.
For naturalized areas near streams, ponds, or in woodland gardens, this plant blends seamlessly, providing consistent textural interest from spring until frost. Consider placing Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ in containers situated in deep shade, as the rhizomatous spread is naturally contained, allowing you to strategically position these bright accents.
Pair this Siberian bugloss coworker with plants that share similar moisture and light needs, such as hostas with deep green or blue foliage, ferns, or bleeding hearts. The contrasting textures and the bright splash of white and blue ensure the shady border avoids looking monochrome.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
Noteworthy Characteristics
Brunnera macrophylla, commonly called Siberian bugloss, is a rhizomatous, clump-forming, herbaceous perennial native to forested, mountain slopes in northeastern Turkey and the Caucasus. It is primarily grown in shady areas for its attractive heart-shaped, dark green, basal foliage. The specific cultivar ‘Dawson’s White’ displays bold, irregular, creamy white variegation around the leaf edges which intensifies as the season progresses after the initial blue flowers fade.
Tolerances
- Rabbit
Potential Problems
Generally, Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ exhibits excellent pest and disease resistance, making it a favorite for low-maintenance gardening. The most commonly encountered issues involve mollusks, specifically slugs and snails, which may occasionally chew holes in the attractive foliage. Addressing these pests early with organic pellets or traps can preserve the plant’s appearance. Rabbits typically avoid consuming Siberian bugloss, offering good deer and rabbit resistance in most settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Siberian bugloss suitable for?
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ is hardy across a wide range, thriving best in USDA Zones 3 through 8.
How large does Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ grow?
This herbaceous perennial typically reaches a height between 1 and 1.5 feet, spreading to a width of 1 to 2 feet at maturity.
What sun exposure does Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ need?
This plant requires part shade conditions; too much direct sun will cause the variegated foliage to scorch.
When does Siberian bugloss bloom?
The small, true blue flowers of Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ appear relatively early in the season, usually from April to May.
Conclusion
Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ is an unparalleled performer in shaded landscapes, providing reliable, low-maintenance structure through both its bright, variegated foliage and its lovely spring blooms. For gardeners seeking to brighten up woodland edges or foundation plantings, this Siberian bugloss cultivar offers superior aesthetic impact. Before planting, confirm your site offers consistent moisture and part shade protection from hot summer sunlight.
Companion Planting
To maximize the appeal of Brunnera macrophylla ‘Dawson’s White’ throughout the season, pair it with other shade-loving perennials that offer contrasting textures. Interplanting with fine-textured ferns, such as Japanese Painted Ferns or Autumn Ferns, enhances the broad, heart-shaped leaves of the bugloss. Consider using the deep blue or purple foliage of certain Hosta cultivars to make the creamy white edges of the Brunnera pop even further.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring is the time to clear away any winter debris and watch for the first emerging flower stalks of your Siberian bugloss. Mid to late spring is the peak bloom time, after which the foliage display takes over. During summer, ensure medium water needs are consistently met, especially during dry spells, to prevent leaf scorch and wilting. In the fall, the plant is low maintenance; cut back damaged leaves only if desired, as the foliage generally remains neat until frost brings dormancy.
