Brunnera 'Jack Frost'
Best shade-loving perennial for gardeners seeking low-maintenance, deer-resistant foliage.
This perennial plant is a garden standout, celebrated for its exceptional foliage. Its heart-shaped leaves display a striking frosty silver with intricate green veining, creating a shimmering effect that brightens shady garden spots. Delicate, sky-blue forget-me-not flowers emerge in spring, adding charm above the captivating leaves. It thrives in full to part shade and prefers moist soil, making it an excellent choice for borders, containers, or as a ground cover. Offering visual interest from spring through fall, this hardy plant is also resistant to deer.
$18.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
2362
/ 4627
#2362 in Landscaping & Garden Plants
Price vs Category Average
-31%
Below average
Plant Type
Perennial, Groundcover
/ Perennial, Groundcover
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking to brighten dark, shaded landscape corners
- Homeowners needing reliable plants for low-light garden areas
- Busy gardeners wanting deer-resistant, low-maintenance foliage
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in dry climates unable to provide consistent irrigation
- Residents in regions with intense summer heat and humidity
- Impatient gardeners looking for rapid, instant landscape coverage
Performance breakdown
Foliage Impact
Stunning silver leaves provide high-contrast illumination for dim garden corners.
Shade Adaptability
Thrives reliably in low-light conditions where most flowering perennials struggle.
Seasonal Longevity
Maintains visual interest from early spring blooms through late autumn foliage.
Pest Resistance
Natural deer resistance minimizes the need for protective garden maintenance.
Versatility
Adapts seamlessly to borders, containers, or as a lush ground cover.
Pollinator Appeal
Delicate spring flowers offer a welcome early-season resource for local bees.
Key Specs
Plant Type
Perennial, Groundcover
Hardiness Zone
USDA 3-8
Mature Height
1-2 feet
Mature Spread
1-2 feet
Exposure
Part Shade, Full Shade
Soil Moisture Needs
Moderate, Moist
Soil Type
Well-Drained
Attributes
Deciduous
Know before you buy
Yes, this is a hardy perennial suitable for zones 3-8. As a deciduous plant, it will die back to the ground in winter and re-emerge in the spring.
It is best to avoid direct afternoon sun, as the leaves can scorch. This plant performs best in full to part shade, where its silver foliage can truly brighten up darker areas.
Since 'Jack Frost' reaches a spread of 1 to 2 feet, you should space them about 18 to 24 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
Yes, Brunnera 'Jack Frost' is generally avoided by deer, making it a reliable choice for gardens where wildlife pressure is a concern.
It is relatively low-maintenance. Simply ensure the soil stays consistently moist and remove any faded foliage or spent flower stalks to keep the plant looking tidy.
Yes, the delicate blue flowers that appear in spring are bee-friendly, making this a great choice for supporting local pollinators in shady garden beds.
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$19