Myosotis sylvatica

RHS Plant Profile
garden forget-me-not

Other common names

wood forget-me-not, ysgorpionllys y coed

Plants for pollinators
Herbaceous Perennial

A tufted, hairy perennial, usually grown as a biennial to 30cm in height, with grey-green leaves to 11cm long, flowering between spring and early summer, bearing small, bright blue, 5-lobed flowers with white or yellow centres

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Boraginaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Tufted
Genus
Myosotis can be annuals, biennials or perennials, with simple leaves and clusters of small, salver-shaped blue, yellow or white flowers, with yellow or white eyes, in spring or early summer
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Content in many garden conditions, a native of woodland and rocky places. Nectar and pollen is enjoyed by bumble bees and butterflies

Propagation

Propagate by seed

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Patio and container plants
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Wildflower meadow
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Banks and slopes
  • Underplanting of roses and shrubs

Pruning

You may wish to remove or cut back old plants to prevent self-seeding

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Susceptible to powdery mildews