Trachystemon orientalis
early-flowering borage
Large, heart-shaped leaves make this a useful choice for quickly covering awkward areas of shade, forming broad, overlapping mounds that suppress competing growth. In spring, clusters of small, starry blue flowers appear on bare pinkish stems before the foliage takes over, adding a welcome splash of colour to the woodland-style planting.
Trachystemon orientalis spreads steadily by underground rhizomes, making it particularly effective for naturalising beneath trees and shrubs or covering dry shade, although it can become vigorous enough to outcompete smaller plants.
Trachystemon orientalis spreads steadily by underground rhizomes, making it particularly effective for naturalising beneath trees and shrubs or covering dry shade, although it can become vigorous enough to outcompete smaller plants.
How to care for Trachystemon orientalis:
Plant in partial to full shade in reasonably fertile, humus-rich soil, although early-flowering borage is particularly useful for covering dry shade once established.
Water well during its first growing season and during prolonged hot, dry periods; the large leaves may wilt in drought, but this is usually a temporary response and they should recover when moisture returns.
Allow plenty of room for it to spread, and cut back tired foliage in autumn if required.
Water well during its first growing season and during prolonged hot, dry periods; the large leaves may wilt in drought, but this is usually a temporary response and they should recover when moisture returns.
Allow plenty of room for it to spread, and cut back tired foliage in autumn if required.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.5m
Eventual spread:
1m
Position:
Light shade / shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
