Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack of Diamonds' – Planting & Care Guide

About Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack of Diamonds'

Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack of Diamonds', commonly known as Siberian Bugloss, is a spectacular herbaceous perennial grown for its exceptionally large, heart-shaped silver leaves with bold emerald-green veining. The impressive foliage creates a striking focal point in shaded areas and remains attractive from spring through autumn.

In mid to late spring, airy sprays of small, bright blue, forget-me-not-like flowers appear above the foliage, attracting bees and other pollinating insects. Larger than many other Brunnera varieties, 'Jack of Diamonds' forms a substantial clump, reaching approximately 40–50cm tall (up to 60cm in flower) with a spread of 60–75cm.

Its bold foliage makes it one of the finest shade-loving perennials for adding texture and brightness to woodland gardens and mixed borders.

Planting Guide

• Plant in partial shade or full shade.
• Prefers fertile, humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil.
• Suitable for loam, clay and sandy soils enriched with organic matter.
• Avoid hot afternoon sun, which may scorch the foliage.
• Dig a planting hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
• Position the crown level with the surrounding soil.
• Backfill with compost-enriched soil, firm gently and water thoroughly.
• Apply a generous organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Space plants approximately 60–75cm apart to allow room for the large foliage.

Care & Maintenance

Brunnera 'Jack of Diamonds' is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial.

• Water regularly during the first growing season.
• Keep the soil consistently moist during prolonged dry weather.
• Feed each spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser.
• Apply fresh mulch annually to improve soil moisture and fertility.
• Keep the area around the plant free from weeds.
• Water container-grown plants more frequently during warm weather.
• Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely.

Pruning

Very little pruning is required.

• Remove faded flower stems after flowering to keep plants tidy.
• Cut away damaged or weathered leaves throughout the growing season.
• Remove old foliage in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
• Divide mature clumps every 4–5 years in spring or autumn to maintain vigour.
• Use clean, sharp secateurs when pruning.

Growing Conditions

• Botanical Name: Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack of Diamonds'
• Common Name: Siberian Bugloss
• Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
• Mature Height: 40–50cm (up to 60cm in flower)
• Spread: 60–75cm
• Flower Colour: Bright blue
• Flowering Period: April to May
• Foliage: Large silver leaves with bold emerald-green veining
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout Ireland and the UK

Ideal Uses in the Garden

Brunnera 'Jack of Diamonds' is perfect for creating bold foliage displays in shaded areas.

• Woodland gardens
• Shaded borders
• Underplanting trees and shrubs
• Ground cover
• Cottage gardens
• Patio containers
• Courtyard gardens
• Mixed perennial borders
• Japanese-style gardens
• Pollinator-friendly gardens

It combines beautifully with Hostas, Ferns, Heucheras, Hellebores, Tiarella, Pulmonaria, Carex and spring-flowering bulbs.

Seasonal Interest

• Large silver foliage emerges in early spring.
• Bright blue flowers bloom in mid to late spring.
• Bold foliage provides striking texture and colour throughout summer.
• Dense clumps help brighten shaded borders until autumn.
• Large leaves create a dramatic architectural effect beneath trees and shrubs.

Common Problems

Brunnera 'Jack of Diamonds' is generally healthy and dependable.

• Leaf scorch may occur in hot, dry conditions or excessive direct sun.
• Slugs and snails may occasionally feed on young foliage.
• Root rot can develop in poorly drained or waterlogged soils.
• Powdery mildew is uncommon but may occur where air circulation is poor.
• Planting in moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil with partial to full shade will help maintain healthy foliage and vigorous growth.

With its enormous silver leaves, delicate blue spring flowers and outstanding shade tolerance, Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack of Diamonds' is an exceptional perennial for Irish gardens. Ideal for woodland settings, shaded borders and containers, it provides season-long foliage interest, attracts pollinators and requires very little maintenance, making it a standout feature in any shaded planting scheme

• Size
  3L

Kindly be aware when mix/ mixed/ assorted/ varieties is mention you will receive ONLY ONE plant/ item, which will be selected for delivery, photos may show different varieties available - which may also vary 

 
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