Myosotis

These plants, commonly known as Forget-me-nots, are found wild in North America, Europe and New Zealand. The Forget-me-nots that are so popular in gardens are varieties of M. sylvatica, a plant that grows wild in Asia and Europe. The plant's height varies from 8 to 24 inches and the thin stems rise above the foliage, which is mostly basal. The leaves are oblong to linear or oblong to lanceolate and 2 to 3 inches long. The tiny flowers are �-inch across, but they grow in abundance, which makes up for their small size. They may be blue or pink. M. azorica and M. alpestris are great for growing in the rock garden. M. scorpioides (palustris) is a hardy perennial that grows from 4 to 24 inches high and can be planted by the water, in a bog garden and anywhere else the soil is moist. This plant produces flat wands of coiled tips covered with blue flowers with yellow centers, from May to September. Forget-me-nots are good pot plants for growing in a slightly heated greenhouse.

Pot Cultivation

Those grown in the rock garden need a partially shady spot and well drained, loamy soil with an addition of sand or grit. Forget-me-nots for the greenhouse may be lifted and brought inside in the fall and placed in 5-inch pots filled with loam and leaf mold with a bit of sand added. Water them and keep in a cold frame, which is kept closed for a few days. When they are established, they may be brought into the greenhouse. Only water the soil when it becomes fairly dry. Instead of relying on spring flowering kinds, choose a variety that is especially for pots. These begin to bloom in mid-winter and continue for many weeks. M. scorpioides (Water Forget-Me-Not) can be planted in one-gallon containers and placed in up to 2 inches of water. Pinch the shoots of these plants to encourage bushier growth.

Propagation

Sow seeds indoors at 65 to 70 degrees and keep them in constant darkness until they sprout. This should be done 6 to 8 weeks before they are to be planted outside. Their roots may also be divided in the spring or summer or stem cuttings may be rooted.

M. sylvatica

VARIETIES

• M. sylvatica;
• M. alpestris & varieties Victoria & Ruth Fischer;
• M.azorica & variety alba;
• M. scorpioides (palustris).