Myosotidium hortensia

Endemic to the Chatham Islands east of New Zealand's South Island, Myosotidium hortensia is a striking evergreen perennial, grown for its luxuriant, deeply veined leaves and clusters of forget-me-not flowers that appear in late spring and early summer.

In the garden, Myosotidium hortensia looks great growing alongside other lovers of moist, shady conditions, like ferns and primulas.

In the wild it's found growing on rocky and sandy stretches of coastline, which tells you something about the growing conditions it enjoys. For best results, grow Myosotidium hortensia in a humus-rich, moist but free-draining soil in partial to full shade. It's half-hardy, so can take light frosts and is best grown in a mild location. An exposed, coastal position is suitable, as long as it's not subjected to excessively cold or drying winds. A regular seaweed mulch while in active growth will keep it happy.