Omphalodes is related to lungworts and forget-me-nots. As such, it is not surprising that the plant has beautiful blue flowers in the springtime. When not in bloom, omphalodes has attractive green foliage somewhat reminiscent of unspotted lungworts.

Plant facts

  • Common name: Omphalodes; navelwort
  • Botanical name: Omphalodes spp.
  • Zones: 6 to 9, depending on species
  • Size: To 2 feet tall, depending on species
  • From: Areas of Europe and Asia
  • Family: Boraginaceae (borage family)
  • Growing conditions
  • Sun: Partial to full shade.
  • Soil: Moist, but well-drained soil high in organic matter.
  • Moisture: Water during times of drought.


Care

  • Mulch: Lay a 2- to 3-inch-deep layer of mulch over the soil around the plants. Use winter mulch only after the soil has frozen.
  • Pruning: Cut plants back in autumn after freezing temperatures arrive or in spring before plants begin to grow.
  • Fertilizer: Fertilizer is generally not necessary in soils that are rich in organic matter. If desired, use a balanced fertilizer in spring.


Propagation

  • Seed: Sow seeds in early spring in a cold frame or sheltered spot in the garden.
  • Division: Divide in early spring. Note: It may take as much as a season or two for the plants to recover from division.


Problems

  • Aphids: These small insects often appear in large numbers on new growth. Spray them off daily with a stream of water; they will not attack a plant after being knocked off. Use insecticidal soap or neem-oil-based spray if infestations are severe.


Selections

  • Omphalodes cappadocica: Grows to 10 inches tall. Blue springtime flowers with white eyes. Zones 6 to 8.
  • Omphalodes cappadocica ‘Cherry Ingram': Grows to 10 inches tall. Deep-blue springtime flowers. Zones 6 to 8.
  • Omphalodes cappadocica ‘Parisian Skies': Grows to 10 inches tall. Extra-early springtime flowers in a shade of azure-blue. Zones 6 to 8.
  • Omphalodes cappadocica ‘Starry Eyes': Grows to 10 inches tall. Blue springtime flowers each marked with a white edge. Zones 6 to 8.
  • Omphalodes verna: Grows to 8 inches tall. Blue flowers that fade to pink in the spring. Zones 6 to 9.