Virginia Bluebells
Mertensia virginica
- Plant family
- Boraginaceae
- Growing zone
- 3-9
- Height
- 12-20 in.
Leaf type: Leaves emerge very early in spring and first appear purple but open up as a soft green. They are large, reaching lengths of 4-6 in. They die back as soon as the flowers drop and the weather turns warm, around June.
Bloom description: Buds are pink, but fade to shades of blue as they open. The nodding flowers bloom in clusters and hang like tiny bells.
Garden uses: Most commonly seen growing in moist woods in the northern Ozarks.
Wildlife benefits: An early source of nectar for native bees.