Alpine Forget‑Me‑Not
Alpine forget‑me‑not (Myosotis alpestris, also treated as Myosotis asiatica) is a compact, short‑lived perennial of high mountains and cool summers. It bears clusters of bright blue flowers on low stems and is ideal for rock gardens in cold regions. It blooms during the short alpine season and appreciates evenly moist, well‑drained soil. It is the state flower of Alaska.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: species; alpine perennial
- Height × spread: 4 to 12 in × 4 to 8 in (10 to 30 cm × 10 to 20 cm)
- Bloom window: June to September
- Color & flower form: bright blue five‑lobed flowers with yellow eye
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: unknown / varies by climate
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- prefers cool summers and high‑elevation conditions
- lower, tighter habit than most garden forms
- bloom aligns with short alpine growing season
best in rock gardens and troughs
Strengths
- excellent cold tolerance
- neat cushion habit for small spaces
- true blue color in early summer
- works well with alpine bulbs
Care in one minute
- Provide full sun in cool climates or light shade where summers are warm.
- Use gritty, well‑drained soil that holds some moisture; avoid waterlogging.
- Irrigate during dry spells; never let soil stay saturated.
- Feed lightly in spring; excessive nitrogen weakens cushions.
- Shear lightly after bloom to keep mounds compact and encourage reseeding.
Watch‑outs
- struggles in hot, humid summers
- short‑lived outside cool‑summer regions
- needs consistent moisture with sharp drainage
Best uses (tags)
rock gardens, troughs, alpine beds, pollinators
Provenance note
In Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, the state‑flower alpine forget‑me‑not is referenced as Myosotis asiatica and has also been treated as Myosotis alpestris.
References
- USDA Forest Service — Plant of the Week: Alpine forget‑me‑not (Myosotis asiatica)
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center — Myosotis asiatica
- Cats Protection — Cat‑safe plants guide (lists Myosotis as safe)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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