tall fringed bluebells
Mertensia ciliata
USDA zones3 to 7
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles moderate to wet soil
Size1 to 4 feet tall12 to 24 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Blue
- Foliage color
- Green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Tall fringed bluebells (Mertensia ciliata) is a perennial for low maintenance gardens and meadows. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and average to wet, sandy or loamy soil. Pendent clusters of clear blue, mildly fragrant flowers turn pink with age and attract butterflies. The roots spread over time and form large patches, so give it room and good air flow to prevent mildew.
Pairs well with Blue flag, Cinnamon fern, and Siebold's hosta.
Native range
AZ, CA, CO, ID, and 7 more places. See all 11
AZ, CA, CO, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, SD, UT, and WY.