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Description
Mertensia Virginica, also known as Virginia bluebells, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. This plant is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 2 feet tall with a spread of 1-2 feet. Mertensia Virginica produces bell-shaped flowers that are pink in bud and turn blue-purple as they mature. The flowers bloom in early spring and attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus || — | — | — | — | — | — | — || Eukaryota | Plantae | Tracheophyta | Magnoliopsida | Boraginales | Boraginaceae | Mertensia |
Appearance
Mertensia Virginica has green leaves that are oval-shaped, 2-4 inches long, and 1-2 inches wide. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces clusters of bell-shaped flowers that are 1 inch long and hang in loose, nodding racemes. The flowers start as pink buds and gradually turn blue-purple as they mature. The plant has a light, sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Mertensia Virginica prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate partial to full shade, but prefers partial shade. The plant needs regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize the plant in the spring using a balanced fertilizer. Mertensia Virginica is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mertensia Virginica is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Mertensia Virginica is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in moist woodlands, along streams and rivers, and in meadows. The plant prefers well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Mertensia Virginica bloom?
A: Mertensia Virginica blooms in early spring.
Q: What are the preferred growing conditions for Mertensia Virginica?
A: Mertensia Virginica prefers moist, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter and partial to full shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Mertensia Virginica?
A: Mertensia Virginica is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Mertensia Virginica?
A: Mertensia Virginica is relatively pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Related Plants
– Mertensia ciliata- Mertensia maritima- Mertensia paniculata
References
– “Mertensia virginica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 30 August 2021.- “Virginia Bluebells.” Plant Conservation Alliance. Accessed 30 August 2021.- “Mertensia virginica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 30 August 2021.
