Small bluebells
Mertensia longiflorafam. Boraginaceae
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Pl. 5A80 — Mertensia longiflora
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IOverview
Overview
Small bluebells (Mertensia longiflora) are a perennial forb or herb native to the western United States and Canada, spanning from Alberta and British Columbia in the north to California and Oregon in the south. Preferring moist conditions and light to medium soil, these plants thrive in habitats ranging from full sun to partial shade. Known for their edible flowers and leaves, small bluebells are valued both as a culinary ingredient and an ornamental addition to gardens. One distinctive feature is their height of about 0.4 meters; another is their light green foliage and delicate, bell-shaped flowers that range in color from pale to deep blue.
Quick answers
What is Small bluebells?
Small bluebells (Mertensia longiflora) are a perennial forb or herb native to the western United States and Canada, spanning from Alberta and British Columbia in the north to California and Oregon in the south.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Small bluebells thrive in partial sun to full sun and require moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). They are hardy in zones 3-7 and are perennial, growing up to 0.4 meters tall. For best results, propagate through division or seed sowing. Harvest the flowers and leaves for culinary use.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.4 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Small bluebells for the first time
8steps
Start with small bluebells by ensuring they get the right conditions and care, focusing on their light and water needs.
- 1
What you'll need
Small bluebell bulbs or seedlings, a garden fork, compost, mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring after the last frost or late summer before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with moist, well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay or sandy soils with compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Plant bulbs 5-7 cm deep and 10-15 cm apart in the garden. For containers, use a mix of light to medium soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade in hot climates and mulch around plants to retain moisture. Water when the top inch of soil dries out.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers after blooming to encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough shade during hot weather.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: The small bluebell's leaves and flowers are edible. They can be eaten raw or cooked. The leaves are often added to salads for a mild flavor, while the flowers can be used in various dishes, either fresh or blanched.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 8 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Boraginaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Boraginaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
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