This native annual grows up to 6 feet tall. But some flowers late in the season may only be a few inches tall. The lance-shaped leaves are up to 6 inches long. They are alternate on an erect stem (A). The flowers are light blue with white throats; they have 5 pointed petals with wavy margins (B). The flowers are on long spikes and open a few at a time to bloom throughout the summer and fall. Identified by the light blue color and shape of the flower.
Grows in woodlands and their edges, flowering from June through November – Images D and E were taken at Fontenelle Forest in November. In Fontenelle Forest, common along Camp Gifford Road near the railroad tracks. At Neale Woods, common along the MRE Trail.
Native Americans used a leaf tea and the crushed root for coughs. Other common names include American Bellflower and Bluebell.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.