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Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’ | Plant Profile

Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’ (Brunnera macrophylla) are unique perennials that are well-suited for shade. The heart-shaped leaves have a dark green base with white variegation on top. The foliage consistently looks as if it is covered in frost, explaining the name. In addition to the interesting leaves, small pale blue flowers rise above the rest of the foliage.

Brunnera prefer consistently moist soils in part shade. These perennials are not suited to drought conditions, so soils should not be left to dry out. There are no serious common diseases that plague Brunnera, but snails and slugs may make a home on the large leaves.

Brunnera are commonly planted in naturally shady and damp areas, such as under trees or shrubs. The groundcover tendency make them suitable as a garden or structural border.

Description

Brunnera 'Jack Frost' Characteristics

The unique foliage of Brunnera 'Jack Fost' adds character to areas that may be one-dimensional. The variegated foliage helps it stand out from other small perennials and groundcovers that are green and nonflowering.

Standing up to 18" above the foliage are the flower stalks. The somewhat star-shaped, pale blue flowers complement the dark greens and whites of the leaves well.

Well-suited to the Pittsburgh climate, Brunnera prefer cooler soils with consistent moisture. The soils should be relatively fertile. If left in the direct sun, especially during the hottest summer months, the leaves may scorch. These clump-forming perennials may become groundcovers if left to spread by their underground shoots.

The large, heart-shaped leaves can fill bares spots or create borders around garden edges. 'Jack Frost' can fill areas beneath trees and shrubs or along river and pond banks. They can also be left to spread when planted in woodland areas. Occasionally, 'Jack Frost' are used in outdoor containers along with other flowering plants.

USDA Climate Zone
Zones  3 - 8
Height
1.00 - 1.50'
Spread
1.00 - 1.50'
Bloom Time
April - May
Water
Medium
Sun
Part Shade
Maintenance
Low
Deer Resistant?
Yes