Mertensia Virginia Bluebells

Mertensia Virginia Bluebells is a native North American woodland wildflower that grows 12 to 24 inches tall and blooms in spring. Borne in loose clusters on smooth, arching stems, purplish-pink buds open into showy bell-shaped flowers with a pinkish cast before quickly turning a rich sky-blue hue. They create a lovely display set against the bluish to gray green foliage as they beckon bees and butterflies.

A Mertensia virginica, commonly called Virginia bluebells or Virginia cowslip, is an erect, clump-forming plant that's hardy in Zones 4-9. Great for naturalizing, Virginia bluebells grow just about anywhere and will form dense colonies over time. They look incredible planted in broad, sweeping drifts under trees or between shrubs, alongside ferns and hostas; but they also make adorable accents planted in groups, scattered here and there throughout the garden or landscape, pairing nicely with Trillium grandiflorum, yellow daffodils, and pink tulips. Once established, they will be at their best if left undisturbed.

Virginia bluebells grow best in a partly shady to fully shady spot with peaty, medium moist, freely draining soil. Plants go dormant in early summer and set seed, coming back the following spring bigger and more vigorous than before. Virginia bluebells are deer resistant.

Plant Virginia bluebells roots in spring, spacing them 12 to 24 inches apart and 2 inches deep.

A native plant, Virginia bluebells is indigenous to North America. Unfortunately, wild Virginia bluebells populations are now endangered, but you can help ensure their survival by planting some in your own garden. And our nursery propagated plants are only commercially grown, never collected from the wild. Native plants are not only beautiful but also environmentally friendly. Naturally adapted to the climate and soil conditions of the region, they thrive without fertilizers or extra watering, once established. They also act as natural pest controls, reducing the need for pesticides in the garden. Landscaping with native plants promotes biodiversity and provides shelter and quality food for wildlife and pollinators, bringing gardens to life.