How to grow Virginia Bluebells

Mertensia virginica

Dappled Sun
OR
Full Shade
High

Moist lowland woodland ephemeral – it will emerge from the ground in spring, bloom, set, and then go dormant (die back) by summer. Has a taproot; doesn’t take transplant all that well, especially in older plants where the rhizome has become woody. Can take years to fully mature, but once established can form large colonies.

Growing Virginia Bluebells from seed

Some sources suggest cold stratification.

Transplanting Virginia Bluebells

Tolerates rabbits, and Juglone (Black Walnuts)

Ensure that temperatures are mild and all chance of frost has passed before planting out, as Virginia Bluebells is a very hardy plant.

How long does Virginia Bluebells take to grow?

These estimates for how long Virginia Bluebells takes to sprout, grow and harvest are from real observations from real gardeners, right around the world.

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Virginia Bluebells Folklore & Trivia

One name for the plant, “Lungwort”, is due to supposed cure for various pulmonary ailments.

Other names for Virginia Bluebells

Virginia cowslip, Lungwort, Oysterleaf, Roanoke Bells