Overview
Mertensia virginica is a perennial herbaceous in the genus Mertensia, part of the Boraginaceae family. Mertensia virginica grows best in partial shade and full shade, and tolerates most soils and acidic to neutral pH. Suggested uses include woodland gardens, naturalizing and shade gardens. It is native to E North America.
About
Mertensia virginica is a perennial herbaceous member of the borage family that produces nodding, bell-shaped flowers in spring. The blooms open pale blue from pink-tinged buds and appear from April to June. Grey-green leaves are carried on arching stems and suit shaded, sheltered spots. It is native to eastern North America and is often planted to naturalise in woodland ground cover.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Mertensia virginica
About the genus
Mertensia is a genus of flowering plants in the borage family Boraginaceae. They are perennial herbaceous plants with blue or sometimes white flowers that open from pink-tinged buds.
In the garden
Mertensia virginica originates in eastern North America and reaches its main season early in the year, flowering from April to June. It produces nodding clusters of bell-shaped, pale blue flowers that arise before gardens become fully shaded by summer foliage. Plant where light is filtered rather than direct: partial to full shade is appropriate, and north- or east-facing aspects suit it best. Soils should be moist and on the fertile side, with a preference for loamy to sandy, well-drained ground at acidic to neutral pH. A sheltered position reduces wind exposure to the arching stems and helps maintain flower display. Use Virginian bluebells in woodland borders, shade gardens or to naturalise beneath deciduous trees and shrubs where spring light reaches the soil. Plant in groups rather than single specimens to achieve the drifts this species forms when established. Expect the best display in a cool, damp spring and position it where its April–June blooms can be seen before summer canopy fills in.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Mertensia
- Sunlight
- partial shade, full shade
- Soil type
- loamy, sandy, well-drained
- Soil pH
- acidic to neutral
- Soil moisture
- moist
- Aspect
- north, east
- Exposure
- sheltered
Plant details
Mertensia virginica size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- perennial herbaceous
- Suggested uses
- woodland gardens, naturalizing, shade gardens
- Native to
- E North America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Mertensia virginica
- Cultivation
- Prefers moist, rich soil in shaded areas; avoid dry conditions; mulch to retain moisture
- Pruning
- Remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding; cut back foliage after it yellows
- Propagation
- seed, division
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Mertensia virginica?
Prefers moist, rich soil in shaded areas; avoid dry conditions; mulch to retain moisture.
Where is the best place to plant Mertensia virginica?
Mertensia virginica prefers partial shade and full shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Mertensia virginica need?
Mertensia virginica is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loamy, sandy and well-drained. It prefers acidic to neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist.
How do I prune Mertensia virginica?
Remove spent flowers to prevent self-seeding; cut back foliage after it yellows.
How do I propagate Mertensia virginica?
Seed, division.
More in the Mertensia genus
- Mertensia asiaticaBluebell
- Mertensia ciliatamountain bluebell
- Mertensia ciliata 'Blue Drop'Mountain Bluebell
- Mertensia maritimaoysterplant
- Mertensia paniculataLake Superior bluebell
- Mertensia virginica 'Rubra'Red Virginia Bluebells
