The blue bobhead (Isotoma fluviatilis) is not related to the popular houseplant of the same name (Soleirolia). Isotoma is hardy and can therefore easily be grown as a ground cover or plant in perennial beds. Winter protection is still necessary.
Is the blue bobhead hardy and how do you protect it in winter?
The blue bobhead (Isotoma fluviatilis) is hardy and can survive temperatures below freezing. Nevertheless, it needs winter protection in the form of fir branches, brushwood or leaves to protect the shoots from winter sun and to grow vigorously in spring.
Blue Bubikopf is hardy
- Not related to houseplant
- completely hardy
- very easy to care for
- needs protection from winter sun
The Blue Bubikopf belongs to the large family of bellflowers and is just as hardy as all representatives of this species. It only grows up to five centimeters high and spreads well if there is enough space. It is therefore very popular as a ground cover in sunny to partially shaded locations.
You should not plant the Blue Bubikopf near larger, vigorous perennials, as it will then quickly become overgrown. The pretty blue and white flowers hardly develop in the shade.
Protect blue bobbed hair from winter sun
Even if the Blue Bubikopf is absolutely hardy and can easily survive temperatures well below freezing, it needs winter protection.
The tender shoots do not need to be protected from the cold, but rather from the winter sun. If the blue bobhead is not covered, the actually evergreen plant looks very unsightly in spring and takes a long time until it develops strong green shoots again.
Fir branches and brushwood are suitable as a cover. Leaves that are not too solid can also be sprinkled over the Blue Bubikopf. The cover remains in place until new shoots have formed and is then carefully removed.
Grow blue bobbed hair in a pot or bucket
You can also plant the Blue Bubikopf in a bucket or pot. You just have to water more often.
When cared for in a bucket, the Blue Bubikopf is not quite as hardy and should be moved to a protected place. Cover it with brushwood.
Blue bob – propagation by sharing
Just like the houseplant Bubikopf, the Blue Bubikopf is very easy to propagate. All you have to do is dig up the plant and divide it. Make sure that enough shoots and roots remain on each section.
Tip
The Blue Bob is not demanding. Normal garden soil is sufficient as a substrate, which you can mix with mature compost.