How to Grow Brunnera 'Dawson's White' (Siberian Bugloss)
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Brunnera 'Dawson's White' (Siberian Bugloss)
Brunnera macrophylla 'Dawson's White'
flowerBrunnera 'Dawson's White' is a striking shade-loving perennial with heart-shaped leaves heavily margined in white and delicate blue forget-me-not-like flowers. This variegated cultivar combines architectural foliage interest with charming spring blooms, making it an excellent choice for woodland gardens and shaded borders. It's a hardy, low-maintenance plant that brightens dark corners with its luminous foliage.
When should you plant Brunnera 'Dawson's White' (Siberian Bugloss) in your zone?
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Example Brunnera 'Dawson's White' (Siberian Bugloss) timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Brunnera 'Dawson's White' (Siberian Bugloss)
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Brunnera 'Dawson's White' (Siberian Bugloss) blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-8, performs best in cooler regions with consistent moisture
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Get my Brunnera 'Dawson's White' (Siberian Bugloss) timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
First 3-4 monthsYoung plants produce small heart-shaped leaves with white variegation; initial root system developing
Keep soil consistently moist (not wet). Mulch around base to retain moisture. Provide afternoon shade. Do not let dry out during first season
Vegetative Growth
Fall through early spring of second yearFoliage expands significantly; leaves develop deeper hearts with prominent white margins. Plant establishes low mound of attractive variegated leaves
Maintain consistent moisture. Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch. Remove any solid green or heavily reverted leaves to maintain variegation. Monitor for early flowering
Flowering
4-6 weeks, typically April-MayAiry panicles of small blue, pink, or lavender forget-me-not-like flowers emerge on thin stems above the foliage in spring
Flowers appear April-May in most regions. Stake loosely if needed. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage longer bloom or allow some to set seed. Maintain moisture throughout flowering
Summer Dormancy/Decline
June through AugustFoliage may brown at edges or decline in heat and humidity; plant naturally slows growth in hot summers
Increase mulch to keep roots cool. Maintain consistent watering in heat. Cut back browning foliage selectively. Provide afternoon shade in zones 7-8. Consider summer shade cloth in hottest areas
Fall/Winter Dormancy
September-MarchFoliage persists through fall and into winter; leaves may develop purplish tones; plant dies back to ground in colder zones
Leave foliage through winter for interest and winter hardiness. Apply additional mulch in zones 3-4 before first hard freeze. Cut back dead foliage in early spring before new growth
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick, use beer traps, copper tape barriers, or organic slug pellets. Encourage ground beetles and birds
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Remove affected leaves promptly. Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap if severe. Encourage natural predators
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Improve air circulation by thinning foliage slightly. Avoid wetting leaves. Spray with sulfur or neem oil if needed. Severe cases may require copper fungicide
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Increase humidity with regular misting or watering. Spray undersides of leaves with water to dislodge. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil if persistent
Uses
Cut Flower Arrangements & Floristry
HouseholdThe delicate blue flowers and variegated foliage make excellent additions to spring and shade garden arrangements, lasting well in the vase. The unique white-margined leaves add textural interest to mixed bouquets and woodland-style designs. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeThe forget-me-not-like flowers attract bees, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden in spring. It serves as an early nectar source when few other plants are blooming. [source]
Edible Leaves & Flowers
CulinaryThe young leaves are edible with a mild cucumber-like flavor and can be added to salads or cooked as greens. The small blue flowers are edible and make attractive garnishes. [source]
Garden Design & Foliage Interest
CraftThe variegated white-margined foliage brightens dark shade areas and provides year-round architectural interest, making it a key plant for foliage-focused shade gardens and woodland designs. The luminous leaves contrast beautifully with dark-leaved hostas and heucheras. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalIn traditional herbalism, Brunnera species have been used to support respiratory and digestive health, though modern scientific evidence is limited. The plant contains allantoin, a compound historically valued in herbal medicine. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not typically harvested for food. Cut flowers last 7-10 days in arrangements; cut when flowers are in mid-bloom stage early in morning. For foliage interest, no harvesting needed; simply enjoy in-place. Remove spent flower stems to maintain plant appearance and redirect energy to foliage
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Siberian Bugloss' is somewhat misleading—despite the name, Brunnera is not a true bugloss (which are Anchusa species) but is instead in the Boraginaceae family. It earned the name due to its resemblance to bugloss flowers
- 🌱 'Dawson's White' is a variegated cultivar discovered and named by British plantsman John Dawson; the white margins provide up to 50% of the leaf surface in well-grown plants, making it significantly more striking than the solid green species
- 🌱 Brunnera is toxic to horses and can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, containing compounds that can cause contact dermatitis, so it's an excellent choice for horse-proof gardens
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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