Mountain Bluebells
Mertensia ciliata
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Mountain Bluebells as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mountain bluebells produce clusters of nodding, bell-shaped blue flowers from spring through mid-summer. This native perennial thrives in partial shade with regular watering and goes dormant in winter. The attractive foliage and long blooming period make it a reliable garden performer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mountain Bluebells takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare ground in winter
- Requires regular watering unlike typical desert landscaping
- May appear too informal for traditional HOA standards
Wildlife value
The tubular blue flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season. This plant provides important nectar sources during late spring and summer months when many other natives have finished blooming.
Common questions
- How much sun does Mountain Bluebells need?
- Mountain Bluebells grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Mountain Bluebells bloom?
- Mountain Bluebells blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Mountain Bluebells native?
- Mountain Bluebells (Mertensia ciliata) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Mountain Bluebells toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Mountain Bluebells as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Mountain Bluebells attract?
- Mountain Bluebells draws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Is Mountain Bluebells HOA-friendly?
- Mountain Bluebells takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Mountain Bluebells? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz