Chinese Forget-me-not, also known as Cynoglossum amabile, can be classified as a perennial, biennial, or cool weather annual, depending on the climate in which it is grown. This classification is important because it determines how the plant will behave and how it should be cared for.
In warmer climates, where the temperatures can get quite hot, Chinese Forget-me-not is often grown as a cool weather annual. This means that it is planted in the cooler months and will typically only survive for one growing season. In these areas, it is best to plant Chinese Forget-me-not in an area that receives shade in the afternoon, as the intense heat can cause the plant to wilt or even die.
On the other hand, in cooler climates, Chinese Forget-me-not can behave as a perennial or biennial. In these regions, the plant is able to survive through the winter and come back year after year. However, it may also behave as a biennial, meaning that it will only live for two years. In the first year, the plant will produce foliage and establish its root system. Then, in the second year, it will produce flowers and set seed before eventually dying off.
I have personally grown Chinese Forget-me-not in both warmer and cooler climates. In the warmer climate, I found that providing afternoon shade was essential to the plant’s survival. Without it, the leaves would become scorched and the plant would struggle to thrive. In the cooler climate, I observed Chinese Forget-me-not returning each year, providing a beautiful burst of color in my garden.
To summarize, the classification of Chinese Forget-me-not as a perennial, biennial, or cool weather annual depends on the climate in which it is grown. In warmer climates, it is typically treated as a cool weather annual, while in cooler climates, it can behave as a perennial or biennial. Regardless of its classification, Chinese Forget-me-not is a stunning addition to any garden, adding delicate blue flowers and a touch of charm.
