Mertensia Arizonica

Description

Mertensia Arizonica, commonly known as Arizona Bluebells, is a species of flowering plant in the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico. The plant grows up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It has bell-shaped, blue flowers that bloom from March to May, attracting bees and butterflies. The leaves are lance-shaped, hairy, and green in color. Mertensia Arizonica is a popular ornamental plant in gardens, rock gardens, and containers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Mertensia Arizonica has lance-shaped, hairy leaves that are green in color. The plant grows up to 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide. It has bell-shaped, blue flowers that bloom from March to May, attracting bees and butterflies. The flowers are about 1 inch long and hang in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant’s stems are green, slender, and hairy.

Care Guide

Mertensia Arizonica is easy to care for and can tolerate drought conditions. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, but let the soil dry out between watering.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant the Arizona Bluebells in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Mertensia Arizonica prefers partial shade to full sun.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Mertensia Arizonica is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, here are some issues that may occur:

• Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to control the disease.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control the disease.

Habitat

Mertensia Arizonica is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico. The plant grows in rocky areas, canyons, and on slopes. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Mertensia Arizonica grow in containers?
• A: Yes, Arizona Bluebells can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and are watered regularly.
• Q: Are Mertensia Arizonica flowers fragrant?
• A: No, the flowers of Arizona Bluebells are not fragrant.
• Q: What is the best time to plant Mertensia Arizonica?
• A: The best time to plant Arizona Bluebells is in the fall or early spring.
Related Articles
• 
  Mirabilis Tenuiloba
• 
  Metastelma
• 
  Myosoton
• 
  Mystroxylon Aethiopicum
• Q: Can Mertensia Arizonica tolerate frost?
• A: Yes, the plant can tolerate light frost.

Related Plants

• Mertensia ciliata
• Mertensia lanceolata
• Mertensia oblongifolia
• Mertensia paniculata

References

• “Mertensia arizonica.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 22 June 2021.
• “Arizona Bluebells.” High Country Gardens. High Country Gardens, n.d. Web. 22 June 2021.
• “Mertensia arizonica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. University of Texas at Austin, n.d. Web. 22 June 2021.