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Honey Petal Plants
Mertensia virginica - Virginia Bluebells
Mertensia virginica - Virginia Bluebells
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Sizes available: one quart
Basics: zones 3-9, 1.5-2' x 1-1.5', deciduous part to full shade, dangling bells of light blue with a pale purple tinge on a curved stem. The buds start pink and change to blue. Blooms in mid to late spring and then goes dormant, prefers moist to mesic (medium), nutritious woodland soils.
Common names: Virginia Bluebells, Virginia Cowslip, Lungwort Oyster Leaf, Roanoke Bells
Family: Boraginaceae
Origin/Distribution: north-central and eastern North America, introduced in New England, but not native there
Habitat: deciduous woodland, rich and moist woods, low wooded hillsides, also floodplains and various disturbed habitats
More: A potential early season nectar source as well as an early season joy for the gardener. Rabbit and juglone tolerant, has been used medicinally, and is apparently edible, including the flower. Long-lived, gradual colonizer that is summer dormant, so plant amongst shady characters that wake up later or in a part of the woods you don't mind there being a springtime party and then a good long rest.
Source: Honey Petal Plants
Image credits: Frank Meuschke of Shelterwood Gardens; also Wikimedia Commons
