Hedyotis caerulea – Houstonia caerulea – Quaker Ladies – Bluets –

Description

Hedyotis – Bluets – There are about 150 species of quick growing, upright or prostrate,, often stem rooting perennials, in this genus. They occur in most habitats in North America. They are attractive. Sometimes short lived plants, valued for their 4 petalled, salverform or funnel shaped, blue or white flowers, borne in profusion from spring to summer. The small, shiny, ovate or oval leaves, 1/4-2″ long, are opposite or occasionally clusters. Grow in a woodland or rock garden, ideally in shady rock crevices. Grow in humus rich, moist but well drained, preferably acidic soil in dappled to full shade. Mulch with pine needles in autumn and spring. Divide in spring or autumn. Prone to rust, snails and slugs. H. caerulea – Houstonia caerulea – Quaker Ladies – This small, clump forming perennial from North America grows 2-6″ tall with an indefinite spread. From upright, sparsely branched, slender stems it carries oblong to ovate-spoon shaped, softly hairy leaves, 1/4-3/4″’ long. In spring it bears solitary, pale blue, almost white, flowers, ½” across, with yellow eyes. Requires acidic soil. Zones 3-8