One of the most beautiful species of spring ephemerals are Virginia bluebells (Mertensia virginica). Bluebells enjoy rich, well-drained soils where they can form large colonies over time. Growing fast, the flower shoots quickly give way to some of the most beautiful flowers east of the Mississippi. The flowers start off pink and gradually turn over to their famous shade of light blue as they mature. Bees, especially female Bumblebees that fly in early spring, will often be seen visiting the flowers. The blooms will last for many weeks in early spring (April and May) and will go dormant by mid-summer.
