virginian bluebells
Mertensia virginica
RHS AGM 1993; MBG Plant of Merit 2018
USDA zones3 to 8
SunHandles partial sun to full shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size18 to 24 inches tall12 to 18 inches wide
- Habit
- Herb
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer
- Bloom color
- Pink , blue , purple
- Foliage color
- Green.
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay, chalk
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Virginian bluebells (Mertensia virginica) is a perennial for shade gardens, woodland settings, and borders. It is hardy to USDA zone 3, or down to -40°F (-40°C). This plant likes part sun to full shade and average to moist soil of most types. Pink buds open to blue, trumpet-shaped flowers in spring, and the plant goes dormant by mid summer. Rabbits tend to nibble other plants first. Protect new shoots from slugs.
Pairs well with Victory hosta, White phlox, and Blackhaw viburnum.
Native range
North America.