Forget-Me-Not: Growing the Flower of Remembrance and Love

Forget-Me-Not (Myosotis spp.)—tiny sky-blue flowers with yellow eyes—carry centuries of legend: a knight's dying words to his love as he drowned, weighed down by armor. Alaska's state flower (M. alpestris), these delicate perennials (often grown as biennials) naturalize beautifully in woodland edges, moist meadows, and cottage gardens.

Species & Types

• M. sylvatica (Wood Forget-Me-Not): Biennial/perennial, 6-12 inches, classic blue. Most common garden type.
• M. scorpioides (Water Forget-Me-Not): Perennial, likes wet soil, streamsides.
• M. alpestris (Alpine Forget-Me-Not): Compact, intense blue, Alaska state flower.
• Annual varieties: M. arvensis, M. ramosissima—self-sow readily.

White (M. alba) and yellow (M. aurea) forms exist but are less common.

Planting Guide

• When: Sow seed early spring (light frost OK) or start indoors 8-10 weeks before frost.
• Where: Partial shade preferred; morning sun/afternoon shade ideal. Cool, moist conditions.
• Soil: Rich, organic, consistently moist. Add compost at planting.
• Sowing: Surface sow—light needed for germination. Press in; don't cover. Keep moist.
• Spacing: 3-4 inches; they tolerate crowding.

Care & Maintenance

• Water: Never let dry out—consistent moisture essential.
• Deadhead: Shear after first bloom for potential second flush.
• Self-seeding: Allow some flowers to set seed for natural colonies.
• Pests/Diseases: Rarely troubled. Occasional powdery mildew in humid conditions.

Special Uses

• National Grandparents Day flower (official).
• Forget-Me-Not Day: November 10—send flowers to lost contacts.
• Wedding flowers: Symbol of true love and remembrance.
• Rock gardens, border fronts, underplanting spring bulbs, woodland paths.

Key Distinction

Annual vs. Perennial: Annuals bloom first year, die. Perennials/biennials form rosettes year one, bloom year two+. Check label before buying.

Few flowers carry so much meaning in such a small package. Plant Forget-Me-Nots where you'll see them daily—and remember.