Blue-eyed Mary (Omphalodes verna)

Blue-eyed Mary

Omphalodes verna

Delicate blue blooms carpet shaded gardens like scattered starlight. Low-growing perennial groundcover; common name: Blue-eyed Mary.

Low light
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Dappled shade to full shade; avoid hot midday direct sun which scorches delicate foliage
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely
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Temperature Hardy to cold temperate climates; tolerates light frost and cool spring growing conditions
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Heart-shaped, fuzzy medium green basal leaves; smaller, lance-shaped stem leaves
  • Flower: Sky-blue 5-petaled blooms with white centers, resembling compact forget-me-nots
  • Stem: Slender, trailing stems that root at nodes to spread horizontally
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil evenly moist during active growth and blooming periods

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once monthly to support bloom production. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which reduce flowering

Composted banana peel tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20, and apply as a root drench to avoid pest issues
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to maintain tidy garden appearance
  • Trim back overgrown trailing stems in late summer to control spread
  • Remove yellowed or damaged foliage to improve airflow and prevent fungal growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes remembrance and fidelity, similar to related forget-me-not species

Usage: Shaded groundcover for woodland gardens, rock gardens, and border edging