Small Bluebells: A Delicate Native Wildflower for Western Gardens
If you’re looking for a charming native wildflower that won’t demand constant attention, small bluebells (Mertensia longiflora) might just be your new garden favorite. This delicate perennial brings a splash of soft blue color to western landscapes while supporting local wildlife – and it’s surprisingly easy to grow once you understand its preferences.
What Are Small Bluebells?
Small bluebells are herbaceous perennial wildflowers native to western North America. As their name suggests, they produce small, bell-shaped blue flowers that dangle gracefully from slender stems. Don’t let their delicate appearance fool you – these hardy little plants are perfectly adapted to challenging mountain and foothill conditions.
This native forb (that’s garden-speak for a soft-stemmed flowering plant) typically goes by the single common name of small bluebells, though you might occasionally see it listed by its botanical name, Mertensia longiflora.
Where Small Bluebells Call Home
Small bluebells are true westerners, naturally occurring across a impressive range that includes Alberta and British Columbia in Canada, and extends south through California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington in the United States. They’re particularly at home in mountainous regions and foothill areas where they’ve adapted to rocky, well-drained soils.
Why You’ll Love Small Bluebells in Your Garden
There are several compelling reasons to consider adding small bluebells to your landscape:
- Native plant benefits: Supporting local ecosystems while reducing maintenance needs
- Pollinator magnet: The tubular blue flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects
- Low maintenance: Once established, they’re quite drought tolerant
- Unique beauty: The soft blue flowers and blue-green foliage add a distinctive touch to any garden
- Versatile placement: Works well in rock gardens, woodland settings, or naturalized areas
Perfect Garden Situations
Small bluebells shine in several garden styles:
- Rock gardens: Their natural preference for well-drained, rocky soils makes them perfect here
- Alpine gardens: They’re right at home with other mountain natives
- Woodland edges: Great for transitional areas between forest and open spaces
- Native plant gardens: Essential for authentic western native landscapes
- Naturalized areas: Excellent for areas where you want a wild look
Growing Conditions and Care
The key to success with small bluebells is mimicking their natural mountain habitat:
Soil: Well-drained is non-negotiable. They prefer rocky, sandy, or gravelly soils and will struggle in heavy clay or waterlogged conditions.
Light: Full sun to partial shade works well, though they can handle quite a bit of sun if soil drainage is excellent.
Water: Moderate water during the growing season, but they’re quite drought tolerant once established. Avoid overwatering, especially in summer.
Climate: Hardy in USDA zones 3-8, making them suitable for most western growing conditions.
Planting and Care Tips
Getting small bluebells established is straightforward if you follow these guidelines:
- Timing: Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate
- Soil prep: Amend heavy soils with gravel or coarse sand to improve drainage
- Spacing: Allow adequate room for natural spreading
- Watering: Water regularly the first season, then reduce as plants establish
- Summer dormancy: Don’t panic if plants go dormant during hot, dry summers – this is natural
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
While small bluebells are generally easy-going, there are a few considerations:
They may go dormant during particularly hot summers, so don’t worry if the foliage dies back – they’ll return with cooler, moister conditions. Also, like many mountain natives, they really don’t appreciate kindness in the form of rich soils or frequent watering once established.
Supporting Wildlife
One of the best reasons to grow small bluebells is their value to local wildlife. The flowers provide nectar for various native pollinators, including specialized bees that have co-evolved with western native plants. By including them in your garden, you’re supporting the intricate web of relationships that keep western ecosystems healthy.
The Bottom Line
Small bluebells offer western gardeners a wonderful opportunity to grow a truly native wildflower that’s both beautiful and ecologically valuable. While they do have specific requirements – particularly good drainage – they reward gardeners who meet their needs with lovely spring blooms and the satisfaction of supporting local wildlife. If you’re gardening in their native range and have well-drained conditions, small bluebells deserve a spot in your landscape.
