Pink in a blue species
In Myosotis sylvatica the flower buds are often pink before opening to blue, and some strains hold the pink as a petal colour. Gardeners have selected pink cultivars alongside white and the usual blue. The effect in a bed is a misty mixture of blue, white and pink flowers.
Is pink the same as the original?
Yes, the pink forms are the same species and care is identical. They are not a rare plant, though you may find them more often as seed mixes than as potted plants.
Calendar
Sow in late summer or autumn, from February to April, and expect flowers in spring, August to November. After blooming, the plants go brown and set seed. If you pull them out, shake the seed heads over the bed first.
- Part shade is best, as full afternoon sun will scorch them.
- Keep the soil damp, not boggy.
- Feed lightly with a general fertiliser.
- Avoid heavy mulch over seedlings.
Cool regions suit them best, such as Tasmania, the Victorian highlands, the Adelaide Hills and Canberra. In Perth they flower briefly, and in the tropical north they are not worthwhile.
A pink forget-me-not carries the standard sentiment, remembrance, with an extra layer of tenderness. It is often chosen for baby showers and friendship gifts.
Keeping pink forget-me-nots fresh indoors
Cut stems are short and wilt quickly, so display them in tiny glasses. Forget-me-nots are not known as poisonous plants, though there is no reason to let pets eat them.
