Mertensia longiflora aka Small Bluebells

Mertensia longiflora, known as small bluebells, belongs to the borage family, Boraginaceae. Its native range runs from western Canada into the western United States. It grows in temperate regions and returns each year as a perennial. Plants For A Future gives its height as about 1.3 feet [0.4 metres]. The supplied evidence gives no mature spread. This species is not native to Britain or Ireland.

In the wild, it grows on plains and foothills. It occupies open ground as well as places with light shade. Sagebrush and ponderosa pine can grow in the same habitats. Some sites reach about 4,920 feet [1,500 metres] above sea level. Its flowers have both male and female organs. The species-level evidence does not describe their colour, shape, or season. It also gives no details about fruit or seeds beyond sowing guidance.

In gardens, this plant suits beds with some shade. Plants For A Future describes it as easy to grow in ordinary garden soil. It also lists full sun as a suitable exposure. The plant prefers moist soil and accepts sand, loam, or clay. Suitable soil pH ranges from mildly acid through neutral to mildly alkaline. The source lists USDA hardiness zones 3–7. These broad soil tolerances give gardeners some choice of planting site. Moisture and light remain useful guides when choosing its place.

Plants For A Future recommends sowing fresh seed in a cold frame. Stored seed should be sown early in the year. Keep the seed sowing out of direct sun. Move seedlings into separate pots once they are large enough. Grow them in a greenhouse through at least their first winter. Set them out in late spring or early summer, after expected frosts. Careful division offers another way to raise plants. Do this in early spring or autumn.

Flowers can be eaten raw, according to Plants For A Future. Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Their hairs make raw leaves less pleasant to eat. The source gives the plant a low food-use rating. It reports no known hazards, but this does not establish pet safety. It lists no medicinal uses or other practical uses. It also records no weed potential. The supplied evidence identifies no specific pests or diseases.