Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia Virginica)

Virginia Bluebells

Features and Characteristics

Mertensia virginica, commonly called Virginia bluebells, is a native Missouri wildflower that occurs statewide in moist, rich woods and river floodplains. An erect, clump-forming perennial which grows 1-2′ tall and features loose, terminal clusters of pendulous, trumpet-shaped, blue flowers (to 1″ long) which bloom in early spring. Flower buds are pink and flowers emerge with a pinkish cast before turning blue. Smooth, oval, bluish green leaves (to 4″ long). Foliage dies to the ground by mid-summer as the plant goes dormant.

Genus name honors Franz Carl Mertens (1764-183- , professor of botany at Bremen.

Specific epithet means of Virginia.

Care and Maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium, well-drained soils in part shade to full shade. Prefers moist, rich soils.

Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia Virginica) Requirements

Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Sun light	Part Shade To Full Shade
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium

Common Problems

No serious insect or disease problems.

Uses

Best massed and left undisturbed in moist, shady woodland, wildflower or native plant gardens. Clumps may be sprinkled in borders or rock gardens, but, since plants go dormant in summer, they must be overplanted with annuals or used in conjunction with perennials (as ferns or hostas) which will expand as the growing season progresses.

Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia Virginica) Details

Common name	Virginia Bluebells
Botanical name	Mertensia Virginica
Plant type	Herbaceous Perennial
Family	Boraginaceae
Hardiness zone	3 - 8
Water	Medium
Maintenance	Medium
Flower color	Blue
Flowering period	March - April
Height	1.50 To 2 Ft.
Width	1 - 1.50 Feet