True forget-me-not - Myosotis scorpioides (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

True forget-me-not

Also known as: Scorpion grass

True forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides) is a perennial wildflower native to Europe and Asia. True forget-me-not grows substantially throughout North America, where it is sometimes considered an invasive species. True forget-me-not is also called scorpion grass, for the curvature of the plant's growth.

Scientific classification

Species

True forget-me-not (Myosotis scorpioides)

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Harvest Time

70 cm

Plant Height

22 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous, Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of True forget-me-not

Distribution of True forget-me-not

Distribution Map

True forget-me-not is native from Europe through to the Himalayas and Siberia. It is found alongside slow-moving waterways. It has been introduced to North & South America as an ornamental for water gardens. True forget-me-not is on the Invasive List in some US states, where it is also a noxious weed.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Wet places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Wildflower and woodland gardens with ponds are the perfect spot to plant true forget-me-not, as this semi-evergreen plant thrives in moist soils. You can grow it as a border or sprawling ground cover plant alongside ponds or in boggy soils. It produces ornamental blue and white flowers during summer which attract butterflies. It's also deer resistant.

Symbolism

Hope, remembrance, true and undying love

Interesting Facts

A symbol of true love, faithfulness and partnership, the forget-me-not is the flower that inspired the phrase, “True Blue.” One of the first flowers to bloom in spring, the dazzling blue color offers a memorable display that is not soon forgotten. It’s the perfect flower to give a spouse or loyal friend.

Name Story

Scorpion grass: The plant is known as the scorpion grass from the spiraling curve of the inflorescence on scorpiod cymes.

True forget-me-not: Hundreds of flowers in the Myosotis genus can be called forget-me-not. This unusual Greek name means a mouse's ear which is inspired by its shape of the flower's small petals. Furthermore, this is genuine forget-me-not, so this is called true forget-me-not.

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Toxicity

True forget-me-not is a weed known for appreciation and low toxicity. Harmful if ingested in large quantities due to its slightly toxic chemical.

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Quickly Identify True forget-me-not

Flat wands of coiled tip branches

Sky-blue flowers with yellow centers

5 mm sky-blue petals with vibrant yellow eyes

Hairy, oblong leaves with undulate margins

Slightly hairy, angled green stems

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Care Guide for True forget-me-not

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: True forget-me-not prefers consistently moist environments, thriving in dampness rather than drought. Watering should occur weekly to support its growth. Primarily cultivated outdoors, true forget-me-not benefits from rainwater, which aids its moisture requirements during the growing season.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, true forget-me-not requires regular balanced fertilization, ideally every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer. Use a diluted liquid fertilizer for houseplants. Adjust frequency in fall and stop in winter. Water before fertilizing to prevent root burn and avoid over-fertilization to prevent soil salt buildup.

Pruning: Prune true forget-me-not from early to late spring to encourage denser foliage and blooms. Start by removing dead stems, then trim one-third of the plant for shaping and new growth. Regular pruning prevents legginess and maintains health, ensuring an attractive appearance during the growing season.

Propagation: True forget-me-not propagates effectively through division in spring and autumn, with new shoots signaling success. Optimal growth requires well-drained soil and proper spacing. This process is considered moderately easy, making it accessible for many gardeners.

Repotting: Repot true forget-me-not every 2-3 years in spring using a wider, shallow pot to prevent moisture retention. After repotting, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and provide partial shade. Handle true forget-me-not's delicate roots gently to ensure minimal disturbance for optimal growth.

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Images of True forget-me-not

Distribution of True forget-me-not

Culture

Toxicity

Quickly Identify True forget-me-not

Care Guide for True forget-me-not

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