largeleaf brunnera
Brunnera macrophylla (J.F. Adams) I.M. Johnst.
Largeleaf brunnera pairs broad foliage with delicate blue flowers. This rhizomatous perennial forms clumps that can reach about a foot and a half tall and two and a half feet wide. Its mound of leaves makes a substantial ground-level presence beneath the much finer flowering stems. NC State Extension: Brunnera macrophylla
Botanical name
The cited authority recognizes Brunnera macrophylla (J.F. Adams) I.M. Johnst. as a species. ITIS: Brunnera macrophylla
Recognizing the plant
The small, white-centred blue flowers resemble forget-me-nots and stand above the foliage in branching clusters. Dark-green, heart-shaped leaves have a rough, hairy surface and deeply impressed veins. Basal leaves can reach six inches across, while upper leaves are smaller. Garden cultivars may have silver markings or creamy margins, but the species also has plain green foliage. NC State Extension: Brunnera macrophylla
Bloom window
North Carolina horticultural account
NC State’s horticultural account gives flowering from early to mid-spring, sometimes extending into early summer. NC State Extension: Brunnera macrophylla
Native range
It is native to Turkey and the Caucasus region, where it occurs in forests on mountain slopes. NC State Extension: Brunnera macrophylla
A growing note
In gardens, the plant prefers shade and moist, well-drained soil, with cooler nights; hot, humid southeastern conditions can be difficult for it. NC State Extension: Brunnera macrophylla
Botanical sources
Reviewed 2026-10-11. Seasonal development varies with location and growing conditions.