Azores Forget-Me-Not: A Charming but Non-Native Addition to Your Garden
If you’ve stumbled across the delicate blue blooms of Azores forget-me-not (Myosotis azorica) and found yourself smitten, you’re not alone. This petite perennial has quietly made itself at home in parts of the Pacific Northwest and California, bringing a touch of its native Azorean charm to American gardens.
What Exactly Is Azores Forget-Me-Not?
Myosotis azorica is a perennial forb – essentially a non-woody plant that dies back to the ground each winter but returns from its roots come spring. Originally from the volcanic Azores Islands off the coast of Portugal, this little wanderer has established itself as a naturalized resident in California and Washington state.
As its name suggests, it’s part of the beloved forget-me-not family, sporting those characteristic tiny blue flowers that seem to whisper remember me as they carpet the ground in delicate blooms.
Where You’ll Find It Growing
In the United States, Azores forget-me-not has made itself comfortable in California and Washington, where the climate somewhat mimics its island origins. It thrives in areas with mild, moist conditions and has shown a particular fondness for naturalizing in suitable habitats.
The Garden Appeal
There’s something undeniably romantic about forget-me-nots, and the Azores variety brings that same ethereal quality to the garden. Its small, sky-blue flowers create a soft carpet of color that works beautifully as:
- Ground cover in shaded areas
- Naturalized plantings in woodland gardens
- Informal garden settings where a wild, cottage-garden feel is desired
The plant’s low-growing, spreading habit makes it excellent for filling in gaps and creating that it just happened naturally look that many gardeners crave.
Growing Conditions and Care
If you’re thinking about adding Azores forget-me-not to your garden, here’s what it needs to thrive:
- Light: Partial shade to filtered sunlight
- Moisture: Consistently moist soil – this isn’t a drought-tolerant plant
- Climate: Cool, humid conditions (likely hardy in USDA zones 9-11)
- Soil: Well-draining but moisture-retentive soil
Once established, Azores forget-me-not is relatively low-maintenance. It may self-seed in favorable conditions, which can be either a blessing or something to manage, depending on your garden goals.
The Pollinator Connection
Those tiny blue blooms aren’t just pretty – they’re also valuable to small pollinators. Bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects appreciate the nectar these modest flowers provide, making them a useful addition to pollinator-friendly gardens.
Should You Plant It?
Here’s where things get a bit nuanced. While Azores forget-me-not isn’t considered invasive or harmful, it is a non-native species that has naturalized in our ecosystems. As responsible gardeners, it’s worth considering whether there might be native alternatives that could provide similar benefits while supporting local ecology.
If you’re drawn to the forget-me-not aesthetic, consider exploring native options like:
- Native woodland wildflowers with similar blue blooms
- Regional ground covers that provide comparable garden functions
- Indigenous plants that support local pollinators and wildlife
That said, if you already have Azores forget-me-not in your garden or decide to plant it, you can enjoy it responsibly by preventing its spread beyond your intended planting area and being mindful of its potential to self-seed.
The Bottom Line
Azores forget-me-not offers undeniable charm with its delicate blue flowers and easy-going nature. While it’s not a native species, it’s also not considered problematic in the areas where it grows. Whether you choose to include it in your garden is ultimately a personal decision that should factor in your local ecosystem, garden goals, and commitment to supporting native biodiversity.
Remember, every garden is an opportunity to support local wildlife and preserve regional plant communities – but there’s also room for appreciating the beauty that plants like Myosotis azorica can bring to our outdoor spaces.
