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Description
Mertensia Lanceolata, commonly known as the Lanceleaf Bluebells, is a herbaceous perennial wildflower belonging to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to western North America and can be found growing in moist areas like meadows, stream banks, and open woods. This plant has a basal rosette of lance-shaped leaves and produces a showy display of blue, trumpet-shaped flowers on tall stems in late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Mertensia |
Appearance
Mertensia Lanceolata has a basal rosette of lance-shaped leaves that are 1-4 inches long and 0.25-1 inch wide. The leaves are smooth with slightly wavy margins and taper to a point at the tip. The plant produces one or more unbranched stems that can reach a height of 1-2 feet. The stems are smooth, green, and slightly angled with a few small leaves along their length. In late spring and early summer, the stems produce clusters of blue, trumpet-shaped flowers that are 0.5-0.75 inches long. Each flower has five petals fused at the base and five stamens with yellow anthers. The flowers are arranged in a loose, terminal cluster that is 2-6 inches long.
Care Guide
Mertensia Lanceolata is a low-maintenance plant that prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. Here are some care tips to help this plant thrive:
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week or more often in hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring.
Soil: Mertensia Lanceolata prefers rich, moist soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0.
Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Hardiness Zones: Mertensia Lanceolata is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mertensia Lanceolata is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust in humid conditions. Leaf spot and crown rot can also occur in poorly drained soil. Aphids, slugs, and snails can occasionally feed on the leaves and flowers.
Habitat
Mertensia Lanceolata is native to western North America and can be found growing in moist areas like meadows, stream banks, and open woods. It prefers cool, humid environments and is often found at higher elevations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Mertensia Lanceolata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept consistently moist and the container has adequate drainage.Q: Does Mertensia Lanceolata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant is a favorite of bees and butterflies.Q: When should Mertensia Lanceolata be pruned back?
A: This plant should be pruned back after flowering to encourage new growth.Q: Can Mertensia Lanceolata be propagated by division?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Boraginaceae family that are related to Mertensia Lanceolata:
- Mertensia Paniculata
- Mertensia Alpina
- Mertensia Oblongifolia
- Mertensia Maritima
References
- “Mertensia lanceolata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b303.
- “Mertensia Lanceolata.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MELA2.
- “Mertensia Lanceolata.” Plant Database, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/89457/.
