Mountain Bluebells
Mertensia ciliata
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
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.
Does Mountain Bluebells fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.