Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica)

Hardy, North American early spring-flowering perennial
Description: Delicate, terminal clusters of light pink buds, which open to flared, long-tubular, sky-blue to purple flowers
Habit: Grows 18" high and 12-18" wide; erect, branching stems; completely dormant in summer
Culture: Prefers dappled shade of deciduous forests and moist, humus-rich loam; plant growing tip 1-inch below surface
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 3
Origin: North America
Jefferson Documented

On April 16, 1766, in one of his earliest observations in his Garden Book, Thomas Jefferson noted, "the bluish colored, funnel-formed flower in the low grounds in bloom". Also called Virginia or mountain cowslip and Roanoke bells in the 18th century, Virginia Bluebells is one of our most desirable native perennial flowers. It was introduced to Britain by 1700 and Williamsburg's John Custis sent roots to his patron Peter Collinson in the 1730's. It is easy to grow in most shady gardens and the emerging tufts of blue-green foliage are a harbinger of spring. Do not allow dormant roots to dry out.

Arrives in a 1 quart pot.