Virginia Bluebells are a special treat in every woodland garden. They are early risers in spring, with their large, smooth, blue-green leaves emerging in early April, followed by pink buds which open to sky-blue bells by May. The flowers open sequentially, with the flower stalk growing taller and taller over the foliage. The bloom period lasts about three weeks, attracting many insect pollinators that receive both nectar and pollen. The plants go entirely dormant soon after that, so keep this in mind when choosing a location for them in the garden. They are substantial plants that can form large colonies, but that will also leave a large area bare once summer dormancy kicks in.
Sources:
Growing and Propagating Wildflowers by William Cullina
Herbaceous Perennial Plants by Allan M. Armitage
Growing and Propagating Wild Flowers by Harry R. Phillips
Missouri Botanical Garden
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
Illinois Wildflowers
Native Plant Herald-Plants That Grow Under Black Walnut Trees
