Brunner plant large-leaved. Shade-tolerant brunner: types and their features, planting, care, methods of reproduction

A shady corner of the garden is not yet a sentence; by choosing the appropriate plants correctly, you can make it bright and attractive. One of my favorite shade-tolerant plants is Brunnera. She deserves many compliments for her exquisite beauty, unpretentiousness and ease of cultivation. But first things first…

The plant received its Latin generic name - Brunnera - in honor of the Swiss botanist Samuel Brunner, and the second name - forget-me-not - because of the similarity with forget-me-not flowers. However, there are still differences with forget-me-not - this is a larger flower size, the presence of a white rather than yellow spot in the middle and the absence of a smell.

Brunner has a second name - forget-me-not - because of the similarity with forget-me-not flowers. However, there are still differences with forget-me-not - this is a larger flower size, the presence of a white rather than yellow spot in the middle and the absence of a smell.

Brunner belongs to the borage family (Boraginaceae), the genus has only 3 species, of which only 2 are used in floriculture. This is a large-leaved brunner and a Siberian brunner. The favorite is the first kind, especially its wonderful decorative varieties, which we will discuss below.

Brunnera macrophylla (Brunnera macrophylla)

Perennial rhizomatous plant native to the Caucasus. In one place, without a brunner transplant, the large-leaved can live up to 15 years, which makes it a profitable plant for the garden.

The height of the large-leaved brunner reaches 40–60 cm, the stems are erect, pubescent, and the leaves are green, rather large, about 20 cm long, heart-shaped with a sharp tip, rough to the touch. The flowers are small sky-blue with a white center, in loose paniculate inflorescences. Brunner blooms in May - June for about 25 days. Seeds ripen in mid - late June.

Brunner large-leaved has long been used in horticulture, it has been known in culture since 1827. Received a lot interesting varieties, differing mainly in the color of the leaves and the shade of the flowers. Of course, this plant is very impressive during flowering, but the beauty of the leaves is valued more. Large, dense, textured, they are consistently decorative throughout the season. By choosing the variety you like, and even better several at once, you can create a wonderful composition.

Varieties by groups

Varieties with, in which on a green background there is a border of various widths and colors:

- a well-known and popular variety with large dark green heart-shaped leaves and uneven cream border. The embossed texture of the leaf looks very decorative. The bush is tall and about 50 cm wide;

- leaves are light green with a wide white border around the edge. Bush up to 40 cm high;

- the leaves are large, rough and embossed, light green in color with an uneven narrow cream border around the edge. Bush up to 45 cm high and about 50 cm wide.

Varieties with silver leaves:

- a very popular variety, its leaves seem to be silvered with hoarfrost, only the veins and border along the edge of the sheet remain green. Bush about 50 cm high;
Looking glass- a variety similar to Jack Frost, but the silveriness of the leaves is even more intense. They look very light, like steel, green veins are much smaller. Bushes about 30 cm high and wide;
kings ranson- one of the new original varieties. Silvery-green leaves with dark green veins and a wide creamy yellow border. The height and width of the bush is about 50 cm;
- on a dark green background of the leaf, closer to its edge, several rows of silver specks. The height and width of the bush is 30–45 cm;
– modern variety Belarusian breeder Alexander Zuykevich is characterized by very large silvery leaves with green veins. The bush is powerful, up to 40–50 cm high and up to 70 cm wide;

Millennium Silver- leaves are dark green with large silvery spots;
- on a green background, small silvery specks along the edge of the sheet;
– a new variety (2010) with silver spots on a green background, which are located symmetrically with respect to the central vein.

Varieties with yellow leaves , for example, - the variety is interesting for the yellow-green color of the leaves. Forms a compact bush 20 cm high.

Varieties with original flower color:

- an original variety with white flowers and plain green leaves. Bush up to 40 cm high and up to 45 cm wide;
- a new variety (2008), combining silvery leaves with white flowers, which makes it especially attractive;
- a variety with a two-color color of flowers, white with a blue stripe;
Henry's Eyes- a variety with a bicolor color of flowers, blue with a white stripe along the edge.

Siberian Brunner (Brunnera sibirica)

A perennial plant native to the forests of Siberia. Its horizontal rhizome is up to 1 m long and about 1 cm thick. The height of the plant is 40–60 cm, the stems are erect, the leaves are large, heart-shaped, pubescent. Flowers in racemose inflorescences, blue with a white center, 0.5 cm in diameter. It blooms in the first decade of May and blooms until early July. During flowering, it looks very decorative, grows rapidly, forming thickets. Used in horticulture, valued for its unpretentiousness and wonderful flowering.

Features of the growth of brunner species

Despite the outward similarity of the large-leaved and Siberian brunners, the plants have significant differences that must be taken into account so that there are no misunderstandings later. I will highlight the features of each type.

So, large-leaved brunner forms fairly compact bushes, does not spread over the site, can grow in one place for a long time without transplanting and dividing the bush. It retains its decorative effect throughout the season, thanks to the formation of new leaves. While the Siberian Brunner, which has powerful surface rhizomes, grows in a continuous array and quickly spreads over the site. Her growth must be limited! In addition, in the middle of summer, the leaves often turn brown and dry, the plant loses its attractiveness. It is better to cut them off so that the foliage recovers over time.

flowers brunners siberian

How to grow brunner

Site selection and soil. As we have already said, brunner is a shade-tolerant plant, therefore it can and should be placed in shady areas of the garden. But still, she needs the sun, better not direct, but scattered. In full shade, the plants stretch and their decorative effect is reduced. A good place will be illuminated in the morning, and at noon and in the afternoon falling into the shade.

For varieties with variegated foliage, as well as yellow-leaved, openwork penumbra is suitable, subject to regular watering.
Brunnera large-leaved prefers moderately rich and moderately moist soils. Siberian loves clay and moist soils.

Care. When growing a brunner, you should always remember about regular watering, especially in hot and dry weather. If the brunner grows in areas where the sun is too much for her, then watering needs to be increased. Otherwise, the leaves quickly lose turgor, and the plant will lose its decorative effect.

Brunner large-leaved must be periodically weeded. Bushes are recommended to be mulched to retain moisture and reduce the frequency of weeding.

Siberian Brunner does not need weeding, its dense thickets will not give weeds a chance to grow. Both types of brunners have excellent frost resistance, so there will be no problems with wintering. The only thing required is to cut late autumn leaves and lightly mulch the bushes.

Plants are resistant to diseases and pests. Sometimes, in conditions of too wet and cool summers, powdery mildew and brown spotting can become ill.

Reproduction. The large-leaved brunner species is usually propagated by dividing the bush, and Siberian by dividing the rhizome. In addition, the species brunner can be propagated by seeds. As for varieties, they need to be propagated only vegetatively.
Thus, cultivation will not be difficult. And this is another reason to have a forget-me-not in your garden!

Application in garden design

Such wonderful plant, like a brunner, with its beautiful leaves and flowers, like a forget-me-not, is widely used in the garden. As already mentioned, various varieties of large-leaved brunners are most often grown. It is suitable for creating borders and mixborders. I grow several varieties at once, selecting them to my liking. I especially like the combination of varieties with different flower colors. By placing the bushes alternately, in May - June, you can enjoy light blue, white and blue-white clouds hovering over the bushes. Combinations of varieties with different leaf colors are also good. In addition, it is easy to find partners for brunners - these are ferns, and others. Siberian Brunner can be used to fill empty spaces with clay soils, as well as to frame water bodies.

A plant such as a brunner or brunner (Brunnera) is directly related to the genus of herbaceous perennial plants of the borage family. This genus includes 3 species. Plant data in natural conditions found in Western and Eastern Siberia, the Caucasus and Asia Minor. This flower was named after the Swiss S. Brunner, who is known as a traveler and botanist. Only 2 types of brunners are cultivated, namely: Siberian and large-leaved. These plants are most often used to create borders and for stable decorative groups as part of mixborders.

Description

Brunner is a real herbaceous perennial that can grow in one place for more than 10 years, forming dense thickets, without degenerating, without crushing the leaves. Perhaps the powerful energy of growth and self-preservation is due to the fact that it belongs to the relic representatives of the flora. This is a speck of the past, which has come down to our days and remembers what the vegetation of the planet was like more than 5 million years ago.

Science knows only a few species of this plant, two are of interest to flower growers.

1. Brunner large-leaved is common in the Caucasus. It forms a short rhizome, from which basal leaves grow on high petioles and stems up to 60 cm high, forming a sprawling bush. Rosette leaves are large, smaller on lateral shoots, the leaf blade is elongated heart-shaped, green, somewhat wrinkled, pubescent with small hairs on both sides.
2. Brunner Siberian is similar to its Caucasian relative, but does not form bushes, but continuous thickets. Its leaves are even larger and more spectacular, it is distinguished by early flowering and cold resistance - the Siberian character affects. The only drawback that reduces the popularity of culture in floriculture is the loss of decorativeness after flowering. In this way, the Siberian variety differs from the large-leaved variety, which produces fresh foliage throughout the growing season.

The perennial blooms from the end of April, throwing out paniculate inflorescences covered with blue flowers like forget-me-nots. The only difference is the color of the pharynx (eye): in the flower of the brunner it is white, while in the forget-me-not it is yellow.

Landing and care

Brunner grows naturally in forests, so it tolerates shady places very well. Sunlight is only allowed for a short time open sun causes inhibition and death of the plant. You can place a brunner in an open place only near a reservoir. In hot regions, permanent shade is preferable. Openwork penumbra fruit trees- ideal for placing brunners.

• The soil for planting Siberian brunners should be clayey, heavy, moist.
• Brunnera large-leaved prefers looser, fertile soil. In one place, both species can grow without a transplant for more than 15 years or longer.
• Prefers top dressing with organic fertilizers. For this, an infusion of mullein is prepared - they are fed once a month.
• It is possible to mulch the plantings with humus in the fall, so that in the spring when the snow melts, the roots receive enough nutrients.

The rhizomes of the plant intertwine in moist soil and do not allow other plants to germinate among themselves. Therefore, weeding is necessary only during transplantation and reproduction, until young specimens have gained strength.
The roots of the brunners are located almost on the surface, so loosening is not carried out so as not to damage them. Plantings should be mulched with humus so that moisture remains in the soil longer.

Possible distillation of brunners

• To do this, carefully dig a rhizome with a clod of earth, transfer it to a large flowerpot with drainage holes filled with a nutrient substrate.
• Before the onset of cold weather, you can leave the plant on outdoors so that it adapts faster.
• Then it is transferred to a cool room. The earth is kept moist, avoiding overflow.
• At good lighting brunner quickly starts to grow - to speed up flowering, it can be brought into a warmer room.
• Flower arrows will appear by mid-December. By experimenting with the temperature of the content, you can achieve flowering for the New Year or other holidays.

Great for mixborders, borders as a background plant. Brunner is self-sufficient in single landings on lawns, flower beds, borders.

Types and varieties of brunners

In total, there are 3 types of brunners:

Brunnera macrophylla (Brunnera macrophylla)- Her homeland is the Caucasus. Outwardly, it is small shrub about 40 cm tall with a powerful rhizome, from which densely pubescent stems extend to the sides with dark green pointed leaves in the shape of a heart. The flowers are in a shade from lilac to dark blue with a white speck in the center, collected in panicles. The flowering period is from late April to late June. Most popular with gardeners, because the leaves do not change color until deep frosts.

Siberian Brunner (Brunnera sibirica)- owes its name to the place of its origin - Western and Eastern Siberia. Its long and strong rhizome develops a whole network underground, the shoots from which cover the ground with a carpet of plants. Does not form a bush. Dark blue flowers rise above wrinkled and dense leaves in panicle inflorescences. Prefers shady damp places. The flowering process lasts from the end of May for a month. Further, the plant almost dries out, but from mid-August it becomes covered with new greenery, which it retains until frost.

Eastern Brunnera (Brunnera orientalis)- Native to the Middle East. It does not differ in special decorative effect, therefore it is not used as a decoration of plots, but grows only in its natural environment.

Varieties of large-leaved brunners

Since of all the species the most attractive for landscaping is Brunnera large-leaved, it was she who became the basis for breeding various varieties.

Jack Frost- "Frost" is translated from English as "frost". The name of the variety is not in vain: the leaves look as if covered with hoarfrost - green streaks on a silvery background. Forms enough large bush reaching 60 cm in height. It blooms from May to June and is characterized by increased frost resistance.

To preserve the decorativeness of the leaves, constant moisture is necessary. Therefore, the northern part of the site is quite suitable for planting, protected from prolonged exposure to sunlight, where water stagnates during rains. In full shade, as well as in the sun, you should not plant.

Variegata- low grade - up to 35 cm. Emerald leaves with a transition to white along the edges.

Prefers partial shade. When planted in a sunny place, the leaves will burn and lose their decorative effect. It can also completely shed foliage in case of drought.

Looking glass- in translation - "mirror". Only 20 to 35 cm high. A silver tint predominates in the color of the leaves. The flowers are pale blue, 5 to 7 mm in diameter.

Shady and semi-shady places are suitable for planting. The bushes keep their shape well and are quite resistant to fungal infections. Great for decorating borders and shaded parts of rockeries.

Kings Ransome- shrub from 40 to 55 cm in height. The leaves are large with dark green veins on a light gray background, creamy at the edges. Differs in abundant flowering from late April to mid-June. In warm autumn weather, flowering may resume, but in this case it is better to remove the inflorescences so that the plant does not lose strength before winter. Grows well in partial shade with regular watering.

Millennium Zilber- emerald leaves of this variety are covered with a scattering of small white spots closer to the edge, which makes it more recognizable among the rest. Growing conditions are the same as for other varieties.

Silver Hut- if you translate the name from English into Russian, it will sound like a "silver heart". Anyone who sees the leaves of this brunner variety will immediately understand why it was called that. As if dozens of silver hearts with a thin green edge and veins frame the flower stalks. The bush reaches 40 cm in height and up to half a meter in diameter. Due to the dense leaf blade, it can withstand even direct sunlight and is not afraid of an excess of moisture. To the acidity of the soil is not demanding.

Pests and diseases

If there is a lot of rain in the summer, then such a plant may develop brown spot, spots appearing on the leaf plates will indicate infection. Bruner can also become infected with powdery mildew. In a diseased specimen, all infected parts must be removed, and then it must be treated with any fungicidal agent (for example, Bordeaux mixture).

Also whiteflies and aphids can settle on this flower. To destroy them, it is recommended to treat the bush with Karbofos or Aktellik.

Wintering

Preparing a brunner for the upcoming winter is very simple. Leaf plates should be cut off in autumn, as they themselves do not die off. It is not necessary to cover these flowers, because they are winter-hardy enough, however, experienced gardeners recommend covering the area with a layer of mulch (peat, compost or humus).

Growing seedlings

• You can try to grow brunner seedlings - for this, it is sown in bowls or containers with dense soil and placed in a refrigerator or under snow for stratification for 4 months.
• At the end of winter, the bowl is put on the windowsill.
• Sprouts will appear in two weeks, but not all at the same time.
• With sparse sowing, they can not be dived, but lightly poured soil into a container with seedlings.
• Then they are grown as ordinary seedlings, feeding twice a month with liquid complex fertilizer.
• Such plants will be ready for planting in the garden with the onset of warm days. They tolerate the transplant painlessly.

Vegetative propagation (cutting, dividing the bush) is most acceptable because of its simplicity, accessibility, ease. It also always retains its original maternal qualities. Seed is used if it is not possible to purchase planting material. Such reproduction is also beneficial if you have purchased a package with a mixture of different brunners, so you can simultaneously get many different varieties and colors.

reproduction

The main method of perennial propagation is vegetative, by pieces of rhizome. It is best to divide the bush in August, when the plant not only fades, but also lays renewal shoots and flower stalks on next year. The bush is dug up, the leaf mass is cut off, leaving a stump of stems and basal petioles (10–12 cm), divided into parts according to the collapse of the rhizome. In a new place, they dig a hole, water it with water, after absorbing moisture, plant a delenka without falling asleep the root collar.

Plants come out in spring after transplanting pieces of rhizome

Brunner Siberian can be propagated by pieces of rhizome without the aerial part, the main thing is that there is a kidney of future growth.

If necessary, young plants can be transplanted in the spring, but only with big ball earth, if possible without injuring the root system.

Today, even in gardening with considerable experience, it is difficult to find a site that is not ennobled with elements of landscape design. In addition to growing vegetables and berries, gardeners are increasingly decorating their allotments with various ornamental crops.

Brunner gained great popularity due to its decorativeness and unpretentiousness. This plant withstands frosts down to -30 degrees. Without losing its appearance and without degenerating, it can grow in one place that is comfortable for it up to 15 years.

plant description

Brunner belongs to the borage family. It is a low shrub with heart-shaped leaves on rather high pubescent petioles. The height of the bushes can reach 60 cm. In the wild, it adorns the banks of rivers, lakes and streams, but can also be found in pine, fir and beech forests.

Named after Samuel Brunner, a Swiss botanist. But among gardeners, the name "forget-me-not" has taken root because of the similarity of flowers. The external difference is only that the forget-me-not has a yellow center of the flower, while the brunners have a white one.

Types and varieties of brunners

In total, there are 3 types of brunners:

Her homeland is the Caucasus. Outwardly, it is a small shrub about 40 cm tall with a powerful rhizome, from which densely pubescent stems extend to the sides with dark green pointed leaves in the shape of a heart. The flowers are in a shade from lilac to dark blue with a white speck in the center, collected in panicles. The flowering period is from late April to late June. Most popular with gardeners, because the leaves do not change color until deep frosts.

It owes its name to the place of its origin - Western and Eastern Siberia. Its long and strong rhizome develops a whole network underground, the shoots from which cover the ground with a carpet of plants. Does not form a bush. Dark blue flowers rise above wrinkled and dense leaves in panicle inflorescences. Prefers shady damp places. The flowering process lasts from the end of May for a month. Further, the plant almost dries out, but from mid-August it becomes covered with new greenery, which it retains until frost.

Eastern Brunnera (Brunnera orientalis)- Native to the Middle East. It does not differ in special decorative effect, therefore it is not used as a decoration of plots, but grows only in its natural environment.

Varieties of large-leaved brunners

Since of all the species the most attractive for landscaping is Brunnera large-leaved, it was she who became the basis for breeding various varieties.

Jack Frost- "Frost" is translated from English as "frost". The name of the variety is not in vain: the leaves look as if covered with hoarfrost - green streaks on a silvery background. Forms a fairly large bush, reaching 60 cm in height. It blooms from May to June and is characterized by increased frost resistance.

To preserve the decorativeness of the leaves, constant moisture is necessary. Therefore, the northern part of the site is quite suitable for planting, protected from prolonged exposure to sunlight, where water stagnates during rains. In full shade, as well as in the sun, you should not plant.

Variegata- low grade - up to 35 cm. Emerald leaves with a transition to white along the edges.

Prefers partial shade. When planted in a sunny place, the leaves will burn and lose their decorative effect. It can also completely shed foliage in case of drought.

Looking glass- in translation - "mirror". Only 20 to 35 cm high. A silver tint predominates in the color of the leaves. The flowers are pale blue, 5 to 7 mm in diameter.

Shady and semi-shady places are suitable for planting. The bushes keep their shape well and are quite resistant to fungal infections. Great for decorating borders and shaded parts of rockeries.

Kings Ransome- shrub from 40 to 55 cm in height. The leaves are large with dark green veins on a light gray background, creamy at the edges. Differs in abundant flowering from late April to mid-June. In warm autumn weather, flowering may resume, but in this case it is better to remove the inflorescences so that the plant does not lose strength before winter. Grows well in partial shade with regular watering.

Millennium Zilber- emerald leaves of this variety are covered with a scattering of small white spots closer to the edge, which makes it more recognizable among the rest. Growing conditions are the same as for other varieties.

Silver Hut- if you translate the name from English into Russian, it will sound like a "silver heart". Anyone who sees the leaves of this brunner variety will immediately understand why it was called that. As if dozens of silver hearts with a thin green edge and veins frame the flower stalks. The bush reaches 40 cm in height and up to half a meter in diameter. Due to the dense leaf blade, it can withstand even direct sunlight and is not afraid of an excess of moisture. To the acidity of the soil is not demanding.

Choosing a place to land brunners

Usually Brunner flowers are planted in flowerbeds, near fences and garden paths - it will look great in any part of the garden. Before planting a brunnera in a prepared place, study its characteristics and location requirements - it all depends on the variety you have chosen.

A huge advantage of the brunner is that it feels comfortable in partial shade and in places of high soil moisture. That is, where most plants will either be stunted in growth or get sick with a fungus. Therefore, with its help, you can ennoble those corners of the garden where the sun looks only in the morning.

Brunner is strictly forbidden to plant in the spring, since during this period it is extremely susceptible to various diseases and pests. But if you still decide to plant a brunner in spring period, then it is better to do this together with a clod of earth in which it grew before transplantation. It is better to plant a brunner on a cloudy day or any other, but in the evening.

Growing and caring for the large-leaved brunner

The plant is so unpretentious that it does not even need watering, if, of course, it is planted in a good place. An overgrown brunner will not let weeds in. But you still need to monitor the weeds and do weeding if necessary. The only thing that does not interfere with the successful cultivation of brunners is mulch in the hot summer and for the winter.

It is strictly forbidden to dig or loosen the soil under the brunner - you can damage the roots, which are usually located close to the surface of the earth. Before wintering, it is better to cut off the aerial parts, leaving stumps about 12 cm long.

In the spring, you can sprinkle complex fertilizer granules directly on the snow to speed up the growing season and more. rich color leaves.

Breeding brunners

Brunner reproduces vegetatively (by dividing the bush) and by seeds. A favorable time for planting and transplanting comes after the end of the flowering period, that is, in August. By this time, the laying of future shoots is just finishing. If it is necessary to plant a bush earlier, then it should be dug out with a large margin and transported without sprinkling an earthen clod.

Propagation by seeds is more painstaking work, since self-seeding is rare. Seeds ripen around the end of July. For normal germination, they need stratification for 3-4 months, so brunner should be sown before winter.

Diseases and pests

Drying of the foliage of a brunner, if it is planted in a sunny area, cannot be called a disease. Rather, these are problems due to violations of agricultural technology, which are eliminated by transplanting the plant into more favorable conditions.

But fungal lesions in the form of powdery mildew or brown spotting are a real misfortune in a rainy summer. Even such a plant loyal to excess moisture in the ground is not able to withstand fungal infections at high humidity and low air temperatures.

The fungus spreads very quickly. Therefore, in order to prevent the plant from losing its decorative effect, all affected parts should be removed and treated with a Bordeaux mixture or other suitable agent. As a preventive measure, you can spray it with phytosporin once every 2 weeks.

Of the insect pests, aphids can attack (especially if there are a lot of ants in the area), whiteflies or mining moths. From aphids will help " green soap"or a solution of tar. Against the rest, it is better to stock up in advance with several bags of complex insecticides.

Brunner in landscape design

The plant looks spectacular along the paths, will decorate any alpine hill or rockery. It also looks magnificent as a lower tier in multi-story flower beds. Favorably sets off tall flowering perennials in mixborders. It goes well with wild garlic, ferns, juniper and Goryanka.

All varieties of brunners feel comfortable near water bodies, making their banks airy green. Only this plant is capable of long and without special trouble turn any plain area into a sophisticated and elegant.

End of flowering and preparation for winter

Brunnera large-leaved ceases to bloom in the summer, in July. Withered flowers should be cut off, leaving only the leaves. Leaves, unlike flowers, do not lose their beauty until the onset of cold weather.

With the advent of cold pores, brunner leaves should also be cut off, since they themselves will not fall off. After the flower is completely cut off the leaves, it can be prepared for wintering. Brunnera can overwinter on her own, but additional help will not hurt her. It is enough just to mulch the soil with sawdust, leaves or humus.

A plant such as a brunner or brunner (Brunnera) is directly related to the genus of herbaceous perennial plants of the borage family. This genus includes 3 species. These plants in natural conditions are found in Western and Eastern Siberia, the Caucasus and Asia Minor. This flower was named after the Swiss S. Brunner, who is known as a traveler and botanist. Only 2 types of brunners are cultivated, namely: Siberian and large-leaved. These plants are most often used to create borders and for stable decorative groups as part of mixborders.

Features brunners

Brunera is a herbaceous plant that is a perennial, a bush can reach a height of 45–50 centimeters. On the surface of branched shoots is pubescence. Large, whole, long-leaved leaf blades have a wide heart shape. Pigeon small (diameter 0.5–1 centimeter) flowers are outwardly similar to forget-me-nots, therefore such a plant is also popularly called forget-me-not. Such flowers are part of paniculate or corymbose inflorescences. Flowering begins in April and lasts 4 weeks, re-blooming is possible in autumn. The flower of this plant differs from the forget-me-not in that the spot inside it is not colored yellow, but white. The fruit is a nut. Such an undemanding plant in care, growing, forms spectacular thickets. It is winter-hardy, but does not feel well in a dry, hot period. Without a transplant in the same place, Bruner can be grown for about 15 years.

Landing brunners

Under natural conditions, such a plant prefers to grow in the forest, in this regard, it is shade- and moisture-loving. When choosing a site for landing, it is necessary to take this into account. In hot areas, it is necessary to choose a shaded area for landing Brunera, as the scorching sun's rays can destroy it. In areas with a less hot climate, this flower should be planted in a slightly shaded place, or you need to choose an area that will be in the shade after lunch. If you plant it next to a pond, then such a plant is able to withstand the direct rays of the sun. Clay moist soil is suitable for planting, while the Siberian brunner is more demanding on the composition of the soil than the large-leaved one. Landing, as well as transplantation, is carried out in the last days of July or in the first days of August. Bruner does not tolerate spring transplanting very well. At this time, only large-leaved bruners can be transplanted, while it is necessary to take an earthen ball of a relatively large size. Disembarkation should be made in evening time or on a cloudy day.

How to plant

Most often, the planting of large-leaved brunners is combined with the division of the flower. After the bush has faded, it must be dug up. Then the root system must be freed from the soil, while immersing it in a container of water. After that, the bush is divided into parts, while adhering to the natural collapse of the rhizome. If necessary, a very sharp pre-sterilized knife should be used to cut the rhizome. When dividing, it should be borne in mind that roots must be present on each division, as well as a kidney for the restoration of the next year. Plant the delenki in the holes, and then water them well.

Brunner Siberian can be propagated by segments of the rhizome. It is located very close to the ground surface. At the dug out rhizome, it is necessary to cut out the old sections, as well as those on which there is rot. Then it is divided by breaking in such a way that each resulting division has a live renewal kidney. The length of the delenok can vary from 4 to 6 centimeters. Each delenka is planted separately, deepening into the soil by 2–3 centimeters, then it is watered very well.

When the plants are planted, the soil surface is sprinkled with a layer of mulch (limestone, sawdust, tree bark, wood ash or coffee grounds).

Brunner care in the garden

The rules for caring for Siberian brunner and large-leaved brunner are different. The large-leaved brunner retains an attractive appearance throughout the growing season, and if you choose for it when planting right place(shaded with wet ground), then you can forget about caring for it before the onset of autumn time. All that this species needs is systematic weeding, which must be carried out without fail, but it should be taken into account that it is impossible to loosen the soil, because the plant's root system is located very close to the soil surface.

After the Siberian brunner fades, brownish spots will begin to form on its leaf plates. Then the leaves will begin to fade, and in the middle of summer they are recommended to be removed. In the second half of August, young leaves should grow in the brunners, which are able to hold out until the first frost. This species is not afraid of weeds, it also does not need watering (enough natural precipitation) and loosening the soil, because the root system is also located close enough to the soil surface. If the summer turned out to be very hot, then the brunners, regardless of the type, will need to be watered periodically, immediately after the leaves begin to wilt.

Breeding brunners

The above describes in detail how to propagate the brunner by dividing the rhizome. It should be noted that variegated forms can only be propagated in this way. It is quite possible to grow a species brunner from seeds, however, due to early frosts, it rarely has time to set seeds. But you can always purchase the seeds of such a plant in a specialized store. The seeds of this flower are very small. They are recommended to be sown in open ground before winter (in autumn). For spring sowing, seeds must be prepared, for this they should be subjected to stratification, which lasts 3 or 4 months. To do this, they can be sown in a box, and then buried in the snow on the street, but the easiest way is to put them on a refrigerator shelf. It should be taken into account that it is much easier to propagate a brunner by division than by seeds, and often it reproduces itself by self-sowing.

Pests and diseases

If there is a lot of rain in the summer, then brown spotting may develop in such a plant, spots appearing on the leaf plates will indicate infection. Bruner can also become infected with powdery mildew. In a diseased specimen, all infected parts must be removed, and then it must be treated with any fungicidal agent (for example, Bordeaux mixture).

Also whiteflies and aphids can settle on this flower. To destroy them, it is recommended to treat the bush with Karbofos or Aktellik.

Wintering

Preparing a brunner for the upcoming winter is very simple. Leaf plates should be cut off in autumn, as they themselves do not die off. It is not necessary to cover these flowers, because they are winter-hardy enough, however, experienced gardeners recommend covering the area with a layer of mulch (peat, compost or humus).

The main types and varieties with photos and names

Brunnera macrophylla (Brunnera macrophylla)

Under natural conditions, it can be found in the Caucasus Mountains, in connection with this, the Germans also call this plant "Caucasian forget-me-not." It has the appearance of a bush. Branched leafy shoots extend from the rhizome, their surface is rough-pubescent. The height of the bush reaches from 30 to 40 centimeters. Radical long-leaved leaf blades are oblong-heart-shaped with a pointed upper part. Their front side is painted dark green, and the wrong side is grayish, because it is rough and has pubescence. Small (diameter about 0.7 centimeters) dark blue flowers have a white center. They are part of the apical inflorescences of a paniculate-corymbose form. Flowering begins in the last days of April and lasts 4 weeks. If it is warm in autumn, then it is quite possible to re-bloom. Cultivated since the 19th century.

Popular varieties:

1. Millennium Zilber. There are large whitish-silvery spots on the leaf plates.
2. Jack Frost. The leaf plates are painted silver, and green veins are clearly visible on their surface. There is a narrow border of green color.
3. Hadspan Cream. The length of the wide heart-shaped leaf plates is about 15 centimeters. They have a narrow border of creamy white color.
4. Langtrees. Silvery small dots are located along the periphery of the dark green leaf plate. The flowers are blue.
5. Variegata. On the leaf plates there is a wide strip of creamy-white color, which goes into the green part with deep tongues. Bushes growing in sunny places have almost white leaves.

Siberian Brunner (Brunnera sibirica)

Under natural conditions, it is found in the forests of Altai and Sayan. This view is much larger and more beautiful than large-leaved brunners. The thickness of the long rhizome is about 10 millimeters. Glandular-pubescent shoots are solitary and can reach a height of 60 centimeters. This species forms thickets. Dense, heart-shaped basal leaf blades have a long petiole and a wrinkled surface. Stem leaves sessile, almost lanceolate. Small (diameter 0.5 centimeters) dark blue flowers have a white center. They are part of complex paniculate inflorescences. Flowering begins in May and lasts 20 days.

Brunnera large-leaved is a perennial herbaceous plant 45-50 cm high with branched pubescent stems, large, whole, wide-heart-shaped leaves on long petioles and blue, forget-me-not-like flowers 5-10 mm in diameter, collected in corymbose or paniculate inflorescences, because of which the people they call her a forget-me-not. Brunner blooms from April for a month, but may re-bloom in the fall. However, unlike the forget-me-not, the brunnera flower does not have a yellow spot inside, but a white one. Brunner fruit is a nut. Brunner forms beautiful thickets, it is unpretentious, very attractive and winter-hardy, but does not like heat and drought. In one place, the plant can grow up to 15 years.

Choosing a place for planting large-leaved brunners

As an ornamental plant, large-leaved brunner is planted in flower beds, along paths, in a word, where you want to decorate the site. When choosing a place, pay attention to the variety and recommendations for the light regime. Some varieties can grow equally well in the sun and in the shade, for others, partial shade is recommended, and for others, you need to look for a place in the shade. In a sunny place, the plant feels best next to a pond.

Shade varieties can be planted along the fence or against the wall of the house, where the sun rarely looks. Near the house, a place where a rainwater drain is arranged is suitable for her. The best place to plant brunners will be where it is sunny in the morning, and then there is shade. Then she will retain the beauty of her leaves throughout the season.

Planting large-leaved brunners

The most optimal time for landing brunners in open ground is from July to early August. Brunner does not require any specific soil for its planting, but it is still better if the soil is moist, loamy and heavy.

Brunner is strictly forbidden to plant in the spring, since during this period it is extremely susceptible to various diseases and pests. But if you still decide to plant a brunner in the spring, then it is better to do this together with a clod of earth in which it grew before transplanting. It is better to plant a brunner on a cloudy day or any other, but in the evening.

When planting a flower, it must be divided - this will rejuvenate the plant. After flowering, the ground part of the brunners is cut off, and the roots are dug up. Rinse the dug roots well and remove the rotten and old parts. Next, cut the main root into pieces. Delenki must have buds of future shoots.

The cut parts of the root (delenki) are laid out in pre-prepared holes and buried. It is very important not to forget to water the areas with buried roots well. The soil can be mulched so that the young shoots do not experience a lack of moisture and overheating.

Landing is carried out as follows:

• The aerial part is cut off, leaving 10-12 cm.
• The rhizome is dug up and washed in a large container with water.
• Defective parts of the roots are removed.
• With a sharp knife, the rhizome is carefully divided (easier along the line of the natural collapse of the bush) so that each part has at least one bud.
• In the soaked holes, delenki are seated and dug in with earth so as not to fall asleep the root collar.

How to care for a large-leaved brunner in the open field

All sorts of weeds love the flower very much. They freely grow among the bushes, enjoying the shade and coolness. Care is complicated by constant weeding, as weeds take away from the ground the minerals necessary for the growth of large-leaved brunners. Experienced gardeners immediately after planting mulch the soil. To do this, you can use any material: needles of coniferous trees, hay, straw, leaves, high or low peat. The number of weeds after mulching is significantly reduced. Advice! At proper care weeding and loosening are done with great care. The root system of the flower almost lies on the surface of the soil. Do not use too sharp objects, as well as deepen them by more than 2-3 cm.

Brunner grows very quickly and can shade neighboring plants. when landing and further care you need to keep this in mind, leaving free space in the flower bed. To prevent the occurrence of fungal infections, constant thinning of grassy bushes is necessary. Timely removal of dried stems and inflorescences will also prevent the development of various putrefactive processes. If the soil meets all the requirements of the flower, then care does not imply fertilization. Only planting brunners on depleted or scarce soils may require additional feeding. It is best to use complex fertilizers, the concentration of the solution of which should be half that prescribed. Feed the flower a couple of times throughout the summer. Excessive saturation of the soil with mineral salts will immediately affect the condition of the leaves - ugly rusty spots will appear on them.

Watering large-leaved brunners

Planted under spreading trees, brunner does not need constant watering, it is produced only a few times per season. Since the flower does not require a transplant for more than 10 years, the choice of a shady area will reduce the care of the large-leaved brunner to a minimum. Direct sunlight quickly evaporates the moisture of a herbaceous plant, so you need to water it abundantly and often. Watering, in the absence of natural precipitation, should be regular and plentiful. Mulch will help retain moisture around the plant for longer. Unlike most flowers, brunners do not require specific hours of adoption. water procedures. Even during the day, wide leaves will protect moist soil from cracking.

Large-leaved brunner care in winter

Planting and caring for a brunner in open field do not imply any difficulties, there will be no problems when preparing the plant for wintering. Brunnera large-leaved is one of those perennials that is highly cold-resistant, therefore it tolerates frosts down to −30 degrees Celsius. Brunner leaves do not die off for the winter, so the above-ground shoots are cut off (leaving 10-15 cm of stumps), and the soil is mulched with peat, fallen leaves or compost. The perennial does not need additional shelter. If desired, you can transplant it for the winter in a tub or flowerpot. With the advent of frost, it is transferred to the room. In such conditions, it can bloom in December.

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Pests and diseases of the large-leaved brunner

The flower is not prone to disease. Sometimes brown spots may appear on it. It arises from too frequent watering or during a rainy summer. Brunner can also be affected by powdery mildew. To combat these diseases, fungicides are used, for example, Bordeaux mixture. Before processing the plant, all parts affected by the disease must be removed from it. Brunner pests are whiteflies and aphids, but they rarely attack the plant. If they nevertheless have chosen a flower, they fight them with solutions of "Karbofos" or "Aktellik", or tar soap.

Both landing and caring for a brunner require a minimum of effort. But the spectacular appearance of the plant will be able to delight others from spring to the very frost. The fact is that after flowering, the culture does not lose leaves, thereby maintaining its attractiveness throughout the season. Withered flower stalks and inflorescences can be removed so as not to spoil the beauty of decorative foliage.

The perennial brunner about half a meter high attracts attention with large leaves and sky-blue inflorescences, similar to forget-me-not. It differs from the latter big size, no smell, white spot in the center of the flower. Therefore, people have long come up with a name for it - Forget-Me-Not. From early spring, she is already in all the splendor of her splendor. Blue-eyed flowers bloom behind frosty silver leaves. The Latin name was given in honor of the traveler and botanist Samuel Brunner from Switzerland.

Forget-me-not has been known since ancient times - it is a relic plant. In ornamental gardening, it is used for borders and group plantings. Serves as an excellent backdrop for more small plants. Unusually enlivens large plants of the distant plan. It forms beautiful thickets, is unpretentious, attractive, withstands harsh winters without visible damage. Brunner curtains are decorative throughout the season.

Description of brunnera or forget-me-not

Brunnera (Brunnera) - a herbaceous perennial with a height of 45-55 cm belongs to the Burachnikov family, whose homeland is taiga forests, banks of rivers and streams of Siberia and Asia Minor. The rhizome is thick, long with several branched stems. Pubescent large heart-shaped leaves sit on long petioles. Flowers are collected in paniculate inflorescences. The fruit is a dry nut, which, when ripe, breaks into several parts. Small, few ripen by the end of summer.

Landing and care

Brunner large-leaved planting and care photo

Brunner grows naturally in forests, so it tolerates shady places very well. Sunlight is allowed only for a short time, the open sun causes oppression and death of the plant. You can place a brunner in an open place only near a reservoir. In hot regions, permanent shade is preferable. The openwork penumbra of fruit trees is ideal for placing brunners.

• The soil for planting Siberian brunners should be clayey, heavy, moist.
• Brunnera large-leaved prefers looser, more fertile soil. In one place, both species can grow without a transplant for more than 15 years or longer.
• Prefers top dressing with organic fertilizers. For this, an infusion of mullein is prepared - they are fed once a month.
• It is possible to mulch the plantings with humus in the fall, so that in the spring when the snow melts, the roots receive enough nutrients.

The rhizomes of the plant intertwine in moist soil and do not allow other plants to germinate among themselves. Therefore, weeding is necessary only during transplantation and reproduction, until young specimens have gained strength.
The roots of the brunners are located almost on the surface, so loosening is not carried out so as not to damage them. Plantings should be mulched with humus so that moisture remains in the soil longer.

Possible distillation of brunners

Brunnera variegata brunnera macrophylla variegata distillation photo

• To do this, carefully dig a rhizome with a clod of earth, transfer it to a large flowerpot with drainage holes filled with a nutrient substrate.
• Before the onset of cold weather, you can leave the plant in the open air so that it adapts faster.
• Then it is transferred to a cool room. The earth is kept moist, avoiding overflow.
• With good lighting, the brunner quickly starts to grow - to speed up flowering, it can be brought into a warmer room.
• Flower arrows will appear by mid-December. By experimenting with the temperature of the content, you can achieve flowering for the New Year or other holidays.

Great for mixborders, borders as a background plant. Brunner is self-sufficient in single plantings on lawns, flower beds, borders.

Breeding brunners

Growing brunners large-leaved planting and care photo

Brunnera is propagated after it has completely faded. The roots are cleaned from the earth and divided into parts. Each new plant should have a well-developed root with a renewal bud. Hands stretch the rhizome in different directions, gently helping themselves with a sharp knife. All diseased and damaged roots should be cut off, the cuts should be processed activated carbon or ash and air dry.

Propagation of brunners by dividing the rhizome

• The soil for planting is prepared in advance - each hole is filled with humus, a handful of universal fertilizer is added.
• Everything is thoroughly mixed with the ground, the delenka is placed in a hole and the roots are spread around the circumference.
• Cover with soil and water well.
• The bud of renewal after planting should be located shallow from the soil surface.
• The ground around the plant should be carefully compacted and sprinkled with mulch to prevent evaporation of moisture.

How to sow brunner seeds When to plant

Brunner flower silver wings brunner silver wings planting and care photo seedlings

Seeds are sown in the garden in the fall to undergo natural stratification.. They are laid out in grooves at a distance of about 10 cm, spilled with water, covered with soil, mulched with compost or humus. In the spring, the plants will not appear at the same time - some only the next year. They are left in the garden until autumn, periodically feeding and watering.

In early autumn, grown seedlings can be transferred to a permanent place. The first time should be carefully weeded and often watered new plantings. Plants grown from seeds do not always repeat parental qualities, such as variegation. They bloom only for 4 years of life.

Growing seedlings

How to grow a brunner from seeds photo seedlings

• You can try to grow brunner seedlings - for this, it is sown in bowls or containers with dense soil and placed in a refrigerator or under snow for stratification for 4 months.
• At the end of winter, the bowl is put on the windowsill.
• Sprouts will appear in two weeks, but not all at the same time.
• With sparse sowing, they can not be dived, but lightly poured soil into a container with seedlings.
• Then they are grown as ordinary seedlings, feeding twice a month with liquid complex fertilizer.
• Such plants will be ready for planting in the garden with the onset of warm days. They tolerate the transplant painlessly.

Vegetative propagation (cutting, dividing the bush) is most acceptable because of its simplicity, accessibility, ease. It also always retains its original maternal qualities. Seed is used if it is not possible to purchase planting material. Such reproduction is also beneficial if you have purchased a package with a mixture of different brunners, so you can simultaneously get many different varieties and colors.

Diseases and pests

• Of the pests, aphids and whiteflies are dangerous.
• This can be avoided by irrigating the plantings with tar water. Why 5 drops of tar are thoroughly mixed in 10 liters of water and watered from above the plants from a watering can. Insects do not tolerate the smell of birch tar, avoid such landings.
• With the mass appearance of pests, it is worth treating with an insecticide.

When waterlogged, brown spots appear on the leaves. And varietal plants are affected by powdery mildew. To avoid this, you can remove some of the leaves if the plantings are heavily thickened, which will serve as additional ventilation. When infested, an appropriate fungicide should be applied.

Brunners have an amazing feature - for some reason, its rhizomes attract mice. They eat the roots of the plant and die from their poisonous composition. Therefore, in areas where a lot of brunners grow, there are practically no mice.

Forget-me-not in landscape design

Brunner in landscape design mixborder photo

Brunner is suitable for decorating shady, wet areas. It grows rapidly and does not require any physical or financial costs. At one time, in the yards of many institutions, hospitals, schools, kindergartens, one could meet brunner thickets on the north side of buildings, in shady areas of sites where other plants simply would not survive under these conditions.

Brunnera 'Hadspen Cream' with Hosta, ferns, Astilbe, Athyrium nipponicum var pictum

And the brunner grows, gladly filling the free space. She did an excellent job of landscaping unsightly places on the territory and did not require any care, growing naturally in the most suitable place for her.

Brunner macrophile in landscape design photo

Such landings look neat and beautiful, do not require any attention and care.
Wherever brunners are planted, they look elegant and attractive everywhere. shady garden with brunners surrounded by hostas, ferns, delphiniums, it acquires zest, special originality and charm.

Brunnera in combination with tiarella photo mixborder Tiarella & Brunnera

Types and varieties of brunners with photos and descriptions

Brunnera macrophylla or large-leaved Brunnera macrophylla

Originally from the Caucasus, it is a bush that grows up to 40 cm. In Germany, for its origin, it is called Caucasian forget-me-not. The large, heart-shaped leaves are sometimes covered with white spots and are pointed at the end. The flowers are dark blue with a white core, collected in panicles, bloom in May, bloom for about a month.

Brunner large-leaved Brunnera macrophylla Sea Heart planting and care photo

In autumn, a second wave of flowering is possible under favorable weather conditions and good care. New leaves appear throughout the season - it does not lose its decorative effect throughout the growing season. This species is the most decorative of all the others - it has become the basis for the work of breeders. As a result, many new varieties have appeared. The plant does not lose its presentable appearance, attracts glances throughout the season.

Brunner macrophila millennium silbert photo

Variety Millennium Zilbert has a silver-white coating on large emerald leaves.

Brunner large-leaved Jack Frost planting and care Brunnera macrophylla ‘Jack Frost’ photo

Variety Jack Frost with almost white leaves and a green stripe along the edge, with small green strokes throughout the leaf plate.

Brunner flower variegata photo in the garden

Variety Variegata - a curved cream-colored line runs along the edges of this species. Some varieties have green leaves with white dots. When the plant is located in sunny places, the leaves look almost white.

Variegated brunner hadspen cream hadspen cream photo Planting and care

Betty Bowring - with emerald green leaves and snow-white bouquets of flowers.

Brunnera macrophylla ‘Looking Glass’ photo planting and care

Langtrees are huge dark green leaves with silvery vertical strokes all over the leaf surface.

Brunnera macrophylla Alexander's Great photo

Brunnera sibirica Brunnera sibirica

Brunner Siberian Brunnera sibirica planting and care photo of flowers in the garden

Originally from Altai, Western and Eastern Siberia. It lives in humid forests and is the most shade-tolerant of all species. She is much taller and larger than her relatives. It does not form bushes, it is a thicket of leaves. It grows rapidly, forming beautiful curtains. From a strong, rapidly growing rhizome, many shoots depart, which carry pubescent stems with wrinkled malachite leaves.

Blue flowers are collected in a loose panicle. They rise above the curtains from May to June. With a lack of moisture, they can wilt. The leaves die off quickly after flowering, becoming covered with brown spots before this - they should be removed. With the beginning of August, new ones appear that keep until frost. Seeds do not ripen this species do not have time to ripen. Therefore, vegetative propagation is preferable for him.

Brunnera orientalis Brunnera orientalis

Brunnera orientalis Brunnera orientalis photo

It grows in Turkey, Palestine, Iran, Lebanon. She is the shortest of all the species. It is practically not used in ornamental gardening. It looks like a large-leaved brunner in miniature. Elliptical casting about 10 cm long. It can be confused with a real forget-me-not.
The species brunner is more resistant to adverse weather conditions than the varietal, so it is given a little more attention to maintain its appearance.

To give their garden an attractive appearance, many gardeners grow perennial flowering plants. Especially popular are perennials that do not require special care.

Many plant lovers know brunner. Thanks to the bright color small flowers and attractive heart-shaped leaves, the shrub can decorate any personal plot.

Brunner feels great in those parts of the garden where other plants cannot grow and develop. It is planted in the shade under the trees. In addition, due to the special structure of the root system, it does not allow weeds to develop.

Under natural conditions, Brunner grows in deciduous and coniferous forests or along the banks of water bodies. Brunner refers to moisture-loving plants. It tolerates severe frosts well. It grows in one place up to 15 years.

Brunner got its name in honor of the explorer and botanist S. Brunner, who studied the nature of the Crimea in the middle of the 19th century.

Description

Brunner refers to herbaceous perennial plants Burachnikov family. Its distinguishing feature is whole large leaves.

The stem is branched, sprawling, forms long shoots up to 40 centimeters. There is pubescence on the stem and petioles of the leaves, making the plant rough to the touch.

The leaves are oblong, oval or heart-shaped. The color of the leaf plate is two-tone: dark green on the outside and gray below.

flowers small size collected in inflorescences, shields are blue. The flowering of the plant begins in early May, after which the active growth of leaves and shoots begins. Under favorable conditions, brunners may re-bloom at the end of summer.

Very often there is an external similarity between brunners and forget-me-nots, so very often this garden plant called "forget-me-not". However, plants have differences: Brunner flowers are larger and odorless.

At the end of flowering, seed pods containing nutlets are formed on the plants.

Varieties

In decorative floriculture, three types of this plant are bred.

• Brunner large-leaved. Under natural conditions, this plant grows in the Caucasus. It is a low shrub up to 40 centimeters with a powerful fibrous root system. Stems are dense with short pubescence. The leaves are shaped like hearts. sheet plate dyed dark green. The flowers are small, collected in paniculate inflorescences, the color can be varied: from pale blue to lilac. Large-leaved Brunner blooms from mid-spring to early summer. This variety is most popular with flower growers, since the color of the leaves does not change until the first frost;
• Brunner Siberian. Under natural conditions, this variety grows in Siberia and Altai in shaded or highly humid places. It is distinguished by larger flowers and leaves, therefore, compared to other species, it looks more impressive and attractive.

The plant has a powerful root system, which in the course of development covers large areas, as a result of which a whole carpet of flowers and leaves grows on the surface of the earth. Brunner Siberian does not form a shrub. In this regard, it is used as a ground cover plant. Its leaves are dense, slightly wrinkled. The flowers are dark blue in color, collected in inflorescences-panicles.

Flowering lasts from May to June. After that, the green carpet completely dries up, and in mid-August it grows back. Young greens remain until the first frost.

Care and cultivation

The plant is unpretentious in care and does not require creation additional conditions, which allows it to be widely used to decorate garden plots.

Lighting and location

The landing site of the brunners should be chosen, taking into account the illumination and humidity of the site. In this case, in the future it will not be necessary to exert a lot of effort to care for the plant.

Large-leaved brunnera grows well in shaded, moderately sunlit areas of the garden, covered with tree crowns. In such conditions, plantings grow rapidly, and gardeners will only have to limit them and control the density. With strong shading, the brunner stems will stretch and it will lose its decorative effect.

Large-leaved brunner grows well near artificial reservoirs. Under these conditions, the flower does not lack moisture and does not require additional air humidification.

Planting and soil

Under natural conditions, the plant grows in shady and well-moistened areas coniferous and deciduous forests. On the garden plot shrubs should be provided with conditions close to natural.

In direct sunlight, the brunner can die, so it is planted in the shade or near a pond. It requires clayey, highly moistened soil.

Landing in open ground is carried out at the end of July. Transplanting a shrub in the spring can lead to the development of diseases. Landing is carried out in the evening or on a cloudy day.

reproduction

Reproduction of large-leaved brunners is carried out by seed method, dividing the bush and dividing the rhizome.

Reproduction by seeds

This method of reproduction does not always give positive result, since variegated forms can lose their decorative properties without inheriting the qualities mother plant. Seeds intended for planting are sown in a previously prepared area at a shallow depth and sprinkled thin layer soil.

Division of the rhizome

This propagation method is well suited for propagating varieties, with variegated leaves, as it allows you to save all the signs of the main plant. The division of the rhizome is carried out at the end of summer, when new flower buds form on the bushes.

For planting, rhizome segments with buds should be prepared, which are planted in prepared soil. Plants should not be buried too deep. It is desirable that root system was close to the ground. Seedlings take root well until the end of autumn and easily tolerate winter frosts. With the onset of heat, in the spring the young brunner blooms.

The division of the bush

The division of the bush is carried out in August. To do this, you should carefully dig out the shrub, keeping the earth lump intact, and remove the ground part with a sharp knife. The root system should be well washed, carefully cut and immediately planted in the ground. With prolonged exposure to the open air, the roots dry out very quickly, and the plant may die.

Planting in this way is carried out in the spring. During the summer, keep high humidity ground and provide shade.

Distillation

Distillation allows you to get flowering specimens of plants mid December. To do this, it is necessary to plant the rhizome, together with a clod of earth, in a large container filled with loose nutrient soil. After that, the soil is well watered and left in the shade until the first frost.

After the onset of frost, the container is moved to a cool place with a temperature of up to +5 degrees. With good lighting, the brunner begins to grow actively. After the appearance of the first shoots, the plant is moved to a warmer room.

Plant nutrition

Brunner large-leaved does not require additional application of mineral fertilizers. The plant thrives on excess nutrients that cause leaf and shoot growth to the detriment of flowering.

Diseases and pests

The plant is resistant to insect pests and diseases. Brown spotting and powdery mildew may appear on the shrub. For the prevention and treatment of plants can be used blue vitriol. Before processing, the affected leaves and shoots should be removed.

Large-leaved Brunner in the garden

In gardens, ornamental perennials that do not require complex care. Brunner (lat. Brunnera) is a plant surprising in its unpretentiousness, willingly filling the problem areas of the garden under the shady crowns of trees. Brunner gives a special charm to the spring site, not yet colored with colors, with its delicate blue flowering.

The striking external similarity of flowers determined the viability of the old name of the plant "forget-me-not", however, the flowers of the brunners are larger, without aroma, although of the same amazing shade, forming a blue cloud against the background of decorative, lush greenery.

Brunner large-leaved

Description

Brunner is a genus of plants represented by rhizomatous herbaceous perennials of the Burachnikov family. It has whole large leaves, forget-me-not flowers. Inflorescences paniculate or corymbose. Dry fruit includes four nuts.

In spring, in May, flower stalks appear first. Abundant flowering lasts a month, after which the deciduous mass intensively grows. In autumn, under favorable growing conditions, Brunnera may re-bloom.

Decorative species and varieties

Of the three species known today, only two are used in landscape design:

Brunner large-leaved(lat. B. macrophylla) grows in the Caucasus. It is a branched shrub with a powerful superficial rhizome. Spreading leafy stems by the end of flowering lengthen up to 40 cm, they are pubescent, rough to the touch. The leaves are basal, oblong, oval-heart-shaped, pointed, two-colored - the upper dark green color is replaced by a grayish lower one. Inflorescences are paniculate-corymbose. Decorative from April until the first significant frost, when the leaves die. During the season, the bush looks elegant, as new leaves appear constantly and regularly. garden forms valued for the wide beautiful variegated heart-shaped leaves.

Brunner large-leaved

brunner sibirica(lat. B. sibirica) is found in Altai. Outwardly, it is larger, more effective large-leaved. Differs in a long rhizome, single stems with rare pubescence, up to 60 cm in height. Instead of bushes, it forms dense deciduous thickets. After flowering, the leaves dry out, becoming covered with dark spots. New ones appear at the end of summer, and hold on until frost. As a forest plant, prefers shady places with high humidity.

Photogallery of species

Cultivation and care

Properly chosen, taking into account humidity and shading, a place for landing brunners can greatly facilitate the subsequent care of her, which is already quite simple. Brunner easily grows in the most problematic shady areas of the garden, where most plants feel uncomfortable. With a good location, it instantly grows, oppressing weeds, neighboring plants. To avoid this, it is better to limit the landing site to a certain area.

In the garden, the brunner should be placed in places where direct sunlight falls in the morning, and the second half of the day passes in the shade. In heavily shaded places, plants lose their decorative effect and stretch out; with sunny placement, it is necessary to maintain sufficient humidity of the air and soil, which is possible if there is a reservoir nearby. hot summer on sunny areas brunner does not survive. The plant prefers constantly moist soils. For large-leaved brunners their humidity should be moderate.

Brunner in the shade of trees

Too rich nutrient soils activate the continuous growth of foliage, different from the usual seasonal rhythm of the plant. This culture generally does not like excessive fertility, abundant nutrition. Brunner does not need additional feeding, the rapid growth of leaves caused by them even harms the plant. Do not use fresh manure for fertilizer.

Powerful rhizomes of the Siberian Brunner are intertwined, preventing the growth of weeds. This cancels weeding, assuming only the need to trim the leaves that have lost their decorative effect. Properly planted plants of this species do not need additional care.

The situation is different with the large-leaved brunner, which grows rather slowly and weakly resists weeds, especially long-rhizome perennials. Timely weeding in this case is simply necessary. Superficial branched rhizomes do not allow loosening plantings, the plant does not need watering and top dressing. To avoid loosening, the soil should be well prepared before planting. Plantings in open elevated places are recommended to be mulched. Secondary peduncles at the end of summer are best removed, they weaken the plant before wintering.

Young bush brunners

In old, overgrown bushes, rhizomes can bulge out, exposing the middle of the plant, so they need to be divided periodically. In good conditions, Brunner can grow for a long time in one place - up to 15 years.

This plant is a real winter-hardy perennial, withstands frosts down to -30 C. Brunner leaves of any kind do not save for the winter. Before winter, especially in the absence of snow, it is advisable to cover the bushes with mulch. In the spring, the shelter must be removed immediately after the onset of heat and the surface loosening of the soil should be carried out.

reproduction

Brunner reproduces by seeds (self-sowing is possible) and vegetatively (by dividing a bush or rhizomes).

The easiest way is vegetative, rhizomatous segments with renewal buds. When planting rhizomes in the holes, they are not deeply buried, placing them superficially.

Segment of brunner rhizome for propagation

Seed propagation of brunners is possible, however, decorative variegated forms can retain the original characteristics of the mother plant only when vegetative reproduction.

The division of rhizomes is carried out after laying flower buds future period, at the very end of summer. Rooting occurs in autumn, young delenki successfully winter and next spring bloom.

Brunner large-leaved, due to the peculiarities of the vertical, rather short rhizome, is more often propagated by dividing the bush. Toward the end of summer, they dig it out, keeping a clod of earth, remove the aerial part and wash the roots in water. The bush cleared of the soil is divided into parts with a sharp knife, following the natural collapse of the roots. Delenki are best planted as soon as possible in a permanent place, until their root system is dry. Autumn transplantation is usually more successful than spring transplantation. If necessary, the bush can be divided in the spring, in this case, during the summer it is necessary to control the soil moisture, in the heat to shade young plants suitable material. Overwatering is also unacceptable.

Young brunners obtained by dividing the rhizome

Reproduction of the Siberian brunner occurs only in autumn, in patches of branched rhizome. At the end of summer, they are dug up, freed from the ground and old parts, superficial, powerful rhizomes are simply broken into separate pieces. Any part of the rhizome must have a bud of future growth. Such a delenka is landed on a predetermined place, preferably marked with a sign. It is enough to slightly deepen it and sprinkle it with earth. The soil is slightly compacted, to improve contact with the roots, immediately watered. Young plants usually bloom the following year.

Growing brunners from seeds is rarely used. Seeds ripen by early June and require long-term stratification (up to 3 months), so it is better to plant them in open ground in winter. Under the most favorable conditions, new plants will bloom only for 3 years. Self-seeding possible.

Forcing brunners is possible if in the fall you transplant bushes with a large lump into a deep container and follow simple rules, already under New Year you can admire modest and cute flowers. To do this, after transplanting, the plants are watered as needed, the flowerpots are kept in a shaded place in the garden until real frosts, after which they are moved to a cool, bright room, with the start of shoot growth, they provide a temperature of about +10 C, continuing moderate regular watering.

blue clouds brunners

Propagating a brunner by dividing a bush is more reliable than rooting part of a rhizome. The division is carried out as carefully as possible, keeping the earth on the roots. It is especially difficult to root varietal plants grown in the shade.

Diseases and pests

Sick culture is quite rare. With excessive watering or in rainy summers, a low resistance of the Siberian brunner to brown spot, powdery mildew, traditional plant enemies that prefer shady and humid places, was noted. Large-leaved varieties do not suffer from these diseases.

In addition, whitefly, aphids, sometimes slugs can infect greens. But in general, pests do not like this plant, which is stable in all respects. Juicy rhizomes of brunners, on the one hand, attract mice, on the other hand, poison them. Therefore, the garden in which the brunner settled may not be afraid of rodent invasions.

Abundant spring bloom

Use in landscape design

Spectacular compositions from undemanding plants brunner type. A variety of compositions using its dense, ornamental bushes wonderfully fit into the most unexpected landscape projects.

Brunnera large-leaved stably effective all season, does not grow, keeps its shape well, is practically not affected by diseases, therefore it is excellent for decorating borders, as well as permanent decorative group compositions as part of mixborders.

Due to the loss of decorativeness by the middle of summer, the Siberian Brunner is of less interest in the design of plantations. Its dense, unpretentious thickets are indispensable for the design of shady waterlogged areas.

Brunner on the site

Partners on the site are Colchis Goryanka, primrose, bear's onion, hellebore, ferns, etc. Blue flower clouds of brunners are in perfect harmony with white, yellow, blue, purple spring flowers: hyacinths, tulips, white and yellow daffodils, blue muscari, multi-colored euphorbia are suitable . They look great next to shrubs, ornamental plants, especially with the universally recognized "queens of the shade": ferns, hosts, astilba, combinations with geyhera, rogersia, hellebore, lungwort are good.

Brunner goes well with perennials, these are, first of all, dicentra, doronicum, decorative bows, bathing suit, irises, primroses. Aquilegia is considered the most successful companion, for the ability to decorate well its foliage withering in adverse conditions.

Undersized varieties brunners form an unpretentious beautiful border along the paths that run around the house.

Moisture-loving brunnera is often planted on the shady banks of artificial or natural reservoirs, dry streams. Green, often variegated leaves of brunners create original ensembles in rockeries next to red-colored stones.

Brunner and hosta in the curb

Creating a "forget-me-not paradise" in an ordinary garden is not a problem. To decorate a meadow of forget-me-nots, it is enough to plant a brunner in the background, in front of it are alpine, colored forget-me-nots, and in front to place a creeping perennial forget-me-not. They all bloom at the same time various shades blue, creating an atmosphere of complete serenity around.

Brunnera is attractive not only with flowers, its multi-colored, variegated leaves are very expressive in themselves. If you approach the design of the site with imagination, you can choose varieties with decorative leaves of all shades of green, in harmony or contrasting in color. You can use some varieties of junipers, spectacular shade-tolerant crops, hydrangeas.