This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: partial shade
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich, moist, well-drained soil
• Rate of growth: average to fast
• Flowering period: April to May
• Hardiness: fully hardy
  
  In early spring, large, mid-green, heart-shaped leaves that look as though they have been dusted with silver appear, followed by tall sprays of tiny, bright blue, forget-me-not-like flowers. For the best variegation, a sheltered, shady site is essential. Although it prefers moist conditions, brunnera will tolerate dry soil once established, and will spread to form a large clump. This is a gorgeous groundcover plant for the front of a border, or lighting up moist, shady areas under the canopy of deciduous trees, or for edging a woodland path.
  
  
• Garden care: Cut back to the base of the plant any stems with leaves that revert to plain green. Lift and divide the plant every two or three years in late autumn.