What Are Forget Me Nots?

Appearance

• Most species of forget-me-nots range in height from 6 to 24 inches, with pink, blue or white flowers approximately ¼ inch across. They have an herbaceous growth habit, with alternating leaves that are typically narrow and elliptical in shape, growing from ½ to 2 inches long. Forget-me-not stems grow at angles and do not branch, and the stems and leaves are covered with tiny, fuzzy hairs. The five-petaled flowers grow in clusters at the tops of the stems, and most varieties have a yellow center. Most varieties of forget-me-nots are profuse bloomers.

Habitat

• Forget-me-nots are native to Europe and New Zealand, although they can be found in many different parts of the world. A popular choice for flower gardens, they have been widely cultivated for ornamental use and have escaped cultivation and become invasive in many areas. Plants of the Myosotis genus prefer evenly moist, well-drained soil, and wild forget-me-nots are thus often found growing along lakes, streams and rivers. They can tolerate full sun to partial shade and prefer soils with a neutral pH. Forget-me-nots are highly adaptable, and different varieties have established themselves in areas ranging from wet, low-lying valleys to alpine meadows. They can be found growing in temperate areas across much of the globe.

Impact on Native Plants and Ecology

• In wet areas, forget-me-nots that have escaped cultivation often form large monocultures that can outcompete native plants and significantly reduce the quantity and diversity of vegetation. Forget-me-nots also contain compounds that are toxic to many mammals if ingested, and this can adversely affect local populations. They establish themselves most readily in disturbed areas, reproducing prolifically. They propagate sexually and vegetatively, spreading by seed and stolon. Forget-me-nots can even grow in shallow water, where they can provide havens for increased numbers of winged aquatic insects. They usually rank near the middle of most invasiveness scales.

Cultural Significance

• Forget-me-nots have been prized by many different cultures throughout history, and these small flowers have become the subjects of myths and legends. According to one story from the Christian tradition, the flower was given its name after God had named all the other plants; the overlooked forget-me-not exclaimed, "Forget me not, O Lord," and thus received its name. Another Christian tale has the flower calling out, "Forget me not!" as Adam and Eve exit the Garden of Eden. The flower has appeared in poetry and prose throughout history, from England to Egypt, where it was believed to inspire visions when placed on the eyelids. It was the flower of choice for Henry IV of England, who adopted it as his symbol after his exile in 1398.