Id-Code: MA 237
Family: Boraginaceae
Origin: Chatham Islands, New Zealand
Special Features: Exquisite blue flowers and very handsome foliage. The contrary white form is also available
History: Introduced by JELITTO STAUDENSAMEN GMBH in 1999
Colour: Blue
Natural Flowering Period: July - August
Winter Hardiness Zones: Z7-10
Growth Habit: Clumping
Foliage: Dark green, rounded leaves, deeply veined like a hosta
Height with Flower: 50 cm (20'')
Spacing between Plants: 45 cm (18'')
Soil Requirement: Cool, moist, well-drained soils, pH 5.8 - 6.8
Location: Sun to partial shade; for cooler summer climates
Use: Plant together with Primula bullesiana and Ligularia przewalskii
Specialities: Rare and unusual

Cultural Tips:
Grams per 1000 seeds: 33,333
Seeds per Gram: 30
Seeding Recommendation: 100g / 1000 plants
Sowing Rate: 2-3 seeds per cell
Plug tray recommended size(s): open flats
Germination: These species usually show excellent results if sown soon after the harvest, although most of them only germinate in spring after the effect of winter. Lower temperatures of less than +5°C (41°F) are very effective. Seed trays should not be discarded prematurely. Constant moisture must be maintained. Do not leave in direct sunlight.

Scheduling:
Best Sowing Dates: Fall to early summer
Sowing to Germination: 16 - 24 weeks
Germination to Transplant: 4 - 8 weeks
Transplanting to Salable Plant: 6 - 10 weeks
Cutting-Back at Transplanting: Not Necessary

Growing On:
Container Size(s): 1-2 plugs per 11/12 cm (4 1/2''); 2-3 plugs per 15 cm (6'')
Vernalization: A prudent recommendation would be to provide 6-12 weeks at an average daily temperature of 40°F (5°C). Exposure to cold may not be necessary for flowering but might improve quality.
Forcing: This species is not a suitable candidate for forcing.
Fertilization: Medium (150-200 ppm)