Mertensia ciliata (Mountain Bluebells)

Amongst the tallest of the bluebells, Mertensia ciliata (Mountain Bluebells) is an upright perennial forming broad clumps of erect leafy stems which arise from a thick, branching caudex. In early to late summer, loose clusters of pendent, narrowly bell-shaped flowers are on display. Opening from pink buds, the sweet-scented tubular flowers gradually turn clear blue, then become pinkish as they age. The charming blossoms give way to fruits that ripen in late summer to fall. The large, blue-green leaves, 6 in. long (15 cm), are oval to lance-shaped, pointed at the tip, with finely toothed edges and prominent veins. Native to the western United States, Mountain Bluebells often grows in moist habitat, such as subalpine meadows and creeksides. It spreads by rhizomes to form great colonies, carpeting the ground with blue-green foliage and bluebell blooms. The flowers and leaves are edible. The Cheyenne Indians made a tea of the powdered root and used it to relieve the itching caused by smallpox and measles. Easy to grow, Mountain Bluebells deserves a spot in the summer garden for the pleasure it provides.

• Grows up to 12-48 in. tall (30-120 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
• Thrives in moist to wet loams and sandy loams in sun or part shade.
• Generally disease free. Keep an eye out for slugs and snails. Good air circulation is necessary to prevent mildew diseases.
• Cut back after flowering
• Propagate by seed. Seed scarification improves germination. Divide rhizomes in the spring
• Native to south-western North America – Oregon to New Mexico.