Brunnera 'Queen of Hearts'

Brunnera 'Queen of Hearts': A Regal Presence in the Shade Garden

Brunnera 'Queen of Hearts' commands attention in any shade garden with its oversized, heart-shaped leaves and delicate sprays of forget-me-not-like flowers. This noble variety boasts a regal blend of foliage and blooms, making it an essential addition to woodland plantings, shaded borders, or as a standout feature in mixed container gardens. Ideal for gardeners seeking to add a touch of majesty and vibrant texture to shaded areas, 'Queen of Hearts' transforms any space into a lush, inviting sanctuary.

Product Characteristics:

• Height: 'Queen of Hearts' reaches an impressive height of 35-45 cm, perfectly suited for adding depth and a focal point within garden designs, where its grand foliage can be admired up close.
• Spread: It forms a robust, clumping mound about 60-75 cm wide, offering generous ground coverage and introducing a dramatic, textured element to the garden landscape.
• Flower Colour: The blooms are a vivid sky-blue, appearing in ethereal clusters that float above the foliage, creating a soft, enchanting display from early to mid-spring.
• Flowering Period: Blooming in early to mid-spring, 'Queen of Hearts' ushers in the season with a flourish of delicate color, providing a refreshing contrast to the emerging hues of the garden.
• Foliage: Its foliage is the crown jewel – large, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green with bold silver overlays, creating a striking visual impact that lasts throughout the growing season.
• Sunlight Requirements: Prefers partial to full shade, thriving in cool, moist environments that enhance the luminosity of its foliage while protecting it from the intensity of direct sunlight.
• Soil Requirements: Enjoys moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter. 'Queen of Hearts' exhibits a notable tolerance for dry shade once established, making it a versatile and enduring choice for various garden conditions.

Uses and Benefits: Brunnera 'Queen of Hearts' is celebrated not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its practical applications in the garden. Its dense foliage effectively suppresses weed growth, offering an attractive and low-maintenance ground cover option. The early blooming flowers attract pollinators, enhancing the garden's biodiversity and contributing to the ecological balance.

Companion Plants: Pair with ferns, astilbes, and hellebores to create a rich, textured shade garden full of contrast and interest. The striking foliage and sky-blue flowers of 'Queen of Hearts' complement the varied textures and colors of these companions, elevating the overall beauty and harmony of the garden.

Care Instructions: Brunnera 'Queen of Hearts' is delightfully low maintenance, requiring minimal care to flourish. Water regularly to establish a deep, extensive root system and to maintain evenly moist soil, particularly during dry spells. A layer of mulch can help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the root zone cool. Deadheading is not necessary, but removing old foliage in early spring can encourage vigorous new growth and maintain a neat appearance.

History: As a distinguished member of the Brunnera family, 'Queen of Hearts' stands out for its strikingly large leaves and captivating blooms. Its introduction has provided shade garden enthusiasts with a magnificent and resilient option for adding depth, texture, and elegance to their garden designs.

Final Thoughts: Brunnera 'Queen of Hearts' reigns supreme as a regal presence in the shade garden, offering a splendid display of foliage and blooms that capture the essence of woodland enchantment. Whether used to accentuate shaded walkways, serve as a luxurious ground cover, or simply to enjoy its ornate beauty, 'Queen of Hearts' brings a sense of majesty and serene allure to any garden setting, inviting all who visit to admire its regal charm.