Blue-eyed mary - Omphalodes verna (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Blue-eyed mary

Also known as: Creeping forget-me-not

Blue-eyed mary (Omphalodes verna) is a member of the borage family and originates in Europe and Asia. The name "Omphalodes" comes from the Greek word for "navel," which the small fruits resemble, and "verna" comes from the Latin word for "spring." Most effective when planted in drifts, it forms a beautiful groundcover.

Scientific classification

Species

Blue-eyed mary (Omphalodes verna)

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

22 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

8 mm to 1 cm

Flower Size

Blue, White

Flower Color

Green, Blue

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Blue-eyed mary

Distribution of Blue-eyed mary

Distribution Map

Blue-eyed mary is naturally found in southern and eastern Europe, favoring temperate regions. Its range has expanded through introduction and cultivation into other parts of Europe and North America. Today, blue-eyed mary thrives both in its indigenous locales as well as in areas where it has been purposefully introduced and cultivated.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Shade of trees, fresh mountain forests, wastelands, scrublands

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Blue-eyed mary

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from European woodlands, blue-eyed mary prefers moderately moist soil and thrives with weekly watering. It is hardy in temperate climates and benefits from mulching to retain moisture, resembling its natural habitat's leaf litter without requiring high humidity or being drought-tolerant.

Fertilize: For blue-eyed mary, use a balanced fertilizer or one high in phosphorus to encourage growth and blooms. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks during the growing season at a quarter to half strength. Reduce during winter and ensure even distribution to prevent root burn, while watering the soil first for absorption.

Pruning: Blue-eyed mary is a woodland perennial with small blue flowers. Prune in early to late spring post-bloom for optimal health, removing dead or damaged stems to enhance flowering and vitality. Use clean tools to prevent infection and ensure robust growth.

Propagation: Blue-eyed mary is a woodland perennial known for its delicate flowers, thriving in shaded gardens. To propagate, divide clumps in late spring or early autumn, replanting at the original depth. Maintain soil moisture and ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot for healthy growth.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free