Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Boraginaceae

Genus:

Mertensia

Species:

Mertensia longiflora

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Bloom Months:

mar, apr, may

Bloom Colors:

Pink, Blue, Purple

Ground Cover:

Yes

Native Range

United States: California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Canada: Alberta, British Columbia

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:

★★★★★ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

well-drained, rocky or sandy soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to open, rocky slopes and meadows