Chinese Forget-Me-Not

Chinese Forget-Me-Not is a charming and easy-to-grow flowering plant that brings a steady stream of delicate blue blooms to the garden from late spring through autumn. Resembling traditional forget-me-nots, this variety features slightly larger flowers with striking yellow centres.

Thriving in shady, damp, and woodland areas, Chinese Forget-Me-Not is perfect for naturalising borders, pollinator gardens, and cottage-style landscapes. It is low-maintenance, requiring little care once established, making it an excellent choice for beginner and experienced gardeners alike.

Where Can You Grow Chinese Forget-Me-Not?

This plant thrives in Zones 4-9, preferring moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. It is well-suited to woodland gardens, damp meadows, and shaded borders, though it will also grow in sunny locations with sufficient moisture.

History and Historical Uses

Native to China and Central Asia, Chinese Forget-Me-Not has been cultivated for its ornamental beauty and pollinator-friendly properties. Traditionally, it has been used in wildflower meadows and naturalised garden settings, where it provides a continuous source of nectar for bees and butterflies.

Canadian Zone Information

• Zones 8-9: Direct sow in autumn or early spring for early blooms.
• Zones 5-7: Start seeds indoors in late winter or direct sow in spring after the last frost.
• Zones 4: Direct sow in spring or mulch plants heavily to protect roots over winter.

How to Grow and Harvest Chinese Forget-Me-Not

1. Planting: Sow seeds 3mm (1/8in) deep, spacing plants 15-30cm (6-12in) apart.
2. Watering: Keep soil consistently moist for best growth, particularly in dry conditions.
3. Maintenance: Remove spent blooms to encourage extended flowering or allow some to go to seed for self-sowing.
4. Pollinator-Friendly: Provides nectar-rich blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

Seed Saving Tips for Future Supply

1. Allow to Flower and Seed: Leave some plants to mature and form seed heads.
2. Harvest Seeds: Once seed heads dry and turn brown, collect them before they scatter naturally.
3. Dry and Clean: Separate seeds from husks and dry them completely before storing.
4. Store: Store seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Properly stored seeds remain viable for up to 3 years.

Certified Organic By

Islands Organics Producers Association (Cert#1962)