Trachystemon orientalis

Trachystemon orientalis, sometimes called Borago orientalis or orienta borage, is a perennial ground cover plant with spectacular growth. It resembles its cousin, common borage, with its blue-violet flowers in April-May. Its large heart-shaped foliage is reminiscent of hostas. WIth its attractive flowering, adaptability, and resistance to dry shade, it will find its place in slightly wild areas of the garden, where space is not limited.

Trachystemon orientalis belongs to the Boraginaceae family. This species originates from Eastern Europe and Asia Minor: Bulgaria, Turkey, Russia (Caucasus Mountains). Its range has expanded to all countries with a temperate climate.

Trachystemon orientalis is a spreading herbaceous perennial plant, reaching a height of 50cm (20in) and quickly covering large areas thanks to its rhizomatous roots. Its stems and foliage are covered in dense hair. The dark green leaves are wide, large, and heart-shaped, reminiscent of hostas. The blue-violet flowers appear before the foliage in April-May. They are pedunculate, in loose clusters, and measure 1.2cm (1in) in width. Each flower is punctuated by the small dark and protruding cone formed by the fused stamens. The growth rate of this plant is fast, and Trachystemon orientalis can become invasive.

Plant oriental borage in humus-bearing, rich in leaf compost, neutral to acidic, and moist but well-drained soil. It will be more beautiful in shade or partial shade, but can tolerate all situations. It can be truly spectacular in moist to wet soil and adapts perfectly to dry shade.

Trachystemon orientalis establishes itself permanently in the garden. Discouraging adventive species, it makes a good ground cover for rural and wild areas of the garden, but its tendency to spread makes it more suitable for large spaces. It can be planted individually or mixed with spring-flowering bulbs such as poet's narcissi, squills, camassia, snowflakes, and wild hyacinths. Other vigorous perennials such as comfrey, German iris, red hot pokers, dead nettle, ligularia, plume poppy, perennial Geranium 'Spessart' or G. nodosum, Solomon's seal, and fairy bells.