Mountain Bell

Mountain Bell (Mertensia ciliata) is a perennial herb belonging to the Boraginaceae family, commonly found in the wild across several western U.S. states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in moist to wet conditions and prefers light to partial sun exposure. It grows well in soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) with a pH range of 6.2 to 7.2, making it adaptable to various soil types. Mountain Bell reaches a height of up to 0.8 meters and is recognizable by its distinctive light green foliage and bell-shaped flowers, which add both ornamental and edible value to the landscape. The leaves and flowers of Mountain Bell are edible and can be consumed fresh in salads or cooked as a green vegetable. The mild-flavored flowers are also suitable for use raw in salads. This plant is a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes, offering both aesthetic appeal and culinary versatility. While it is not known for medicinal uses, caution should be exercised when consuming any wild plant, as proper identification is crucial to avoid potential toxicity.