Boraginaceae

Mertensia ciliata

Fringed Lungwort

Erect cluster of stems. Stems and leaves shiny green, sometimes with white waxy sheen on hairless surface. Leaves elliptic or lance-shaped, numerous on upper stems, with conspicuous veins, sessile; lower leaves with short petioles. Flowers dark blue, held on one side of stem, each on its own stalk. Hanging flowers have a fringe of hairs on inside. This bluebell is taller than others (except M. paniculata) and often forms dense stands adjacent to small streams and seeps at mid to high elevations, including Steens and Wallowa mountains.

• Rarity: Locally Common
• Flowering Time: Late Spring, Early Summer
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Height: 16--45 inches
• Habitat: Meadow, Bog/Fen/Wetland
• Found In: Wallowas, Steens
• Native: Yes