Prized for its ability to withstand lower winter temperatures, it also produces fragrant, creamy white flowers at a young age. Only half as wide as tall, it fits well into landscapes as a specimen or patio tree. Deciduous in cold climates.

Mertensia virginica, commonly called Virginia bluebells, is a native Missouri wildflower that occurs statewide in moist, rich woods and river floodplains. An erect, clump-forming perennial  features loose, terminal clusters of pendulous, trumpet-shaped, blue flowers (to 1" long) which bloom in early spring. Flower buds are pink and flowers emerge with a pinkish cast before turning blue. 

Purple new growth with purple stems and light pink spotted flowers in June followed by purple seed heads. These clumping plants reach around 18”-24” tall and wide. It prefers a well drained soil in full sun to light shade.

It has soft to deep lavender, 3 in. wide, tubular, pin cushion-like flowers that attract butterflies and hummingbirds.

Beebalm is a traditional favourite for the perennial border, with a striking display of richly coloured flowers through the summer months. It has shaggy, deep raspberry-purple flowers. The foliage smells like mint when crushed.