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Chinese Forget-Me-Knots #900346

Asked May 06, 2025, 6:08 PM EDT

Hello, Are Chinese Forget Me Knots invasive in South Lyon MI? Would it be safe to grow in pot? Thank you, Maria

Washtenaw County Michigan

Expert Response


Thank you for your question, Maria!
  On the Michigan Invasive Species webpage: 
Michigan Invasive Species Program
their definition of  "an invasive species is one that is not native and whose introduction causes harm, or is likely to cause harm to Michigan's economy, environment, or human health."  
  Chinese forget-me-not (Cynoglossum amabile) is grown as an annual plant in northern climates and a biennial plant in warmer ones. The plants readily reseed themselves year after year and this may be where one might think they can become invasive.    Planting them in a pot or even in your garden should not be an issue, as their blossoms can be used in floral arrangements or sprays. Their stems can reach up to 2 feet tall! If you are concerned about them "getting out of control" prune the flowers and use in bouquets before they set seed. 
   In my search to answer your question I found several businesses that sell either the plant or the seeds. Plant seeds a few weeks before the last frost date with full to part sun and water moderately. Caution as this plant is toxic to people and horses. 
  This article adds more credence to it being noninvasive: 
Is Chinese forget-me-not invasive? - Green Packs

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 09, 2025, 1:28 PM EDT

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