Virginia Bluebells

Virginia Bluebells, Mertensia virginica, is a true-blue favorite to behold in spring!  This native wildflower makes a memorable appearance in early spring. Nodding clusters of pink buds open into periwinkle-blue, trumpet-shaped flowers on arching 1-2 ft stems. These perennials have smooth, green-gray foliage varying in size from 2-8 inches long, with the longer leaves located at the base of the plant. The erect clumps grow up to 2 ft tall and about 15 inches wide and will go dormant by summer. The lovely periwinkle blue flowers open during late March-May, depending on your growing zone. The long blooming period lasts about 3 weeks. Virginia Bluebells are part of the American Beauties Native Plant program.

The native habitat for Virginia Bluebells is found in moist woodlands and river flood plains. This beauty is a member of the borage family and is hardy in Zones 3-9. The pendulous, terminal flowers can be up to one inch long and are pollinated by hummingbirds, several types of butterflies, moths, and bees. Bluebells are lovely when naturalized with bleeding hearts, daffodils, and spring ephemerals for an inspiring show. 

Virginia Bluebells Care

Virginia Bluebells enjoy being planted in rich, well-draining soils, in partial-shade to partial-sun locations. They are easily naturalized in moist, shady woodlands and will form large colonies over time. This lovely native is virtually maintenance-free as long as you provide them with these growing conditions. 

Virginia Bluebells can be divided and transplanted to cover a large area. Transplanting of mature plants is best done in early spring or late fall when they are dormant. 

Virginia Bluebells Spacing

Find a shady spot in your landscape with rich soil where these beauties can naturalize into a brilliant blue colony. Plant them at least 1 ft apart on center to create a stunning mass display in early spring. 

Virginia Bluebells Information