Bluets Houstonia caerulea

Bluet is a herbaceous perennial wildflower that may grow to a height of 6 inches. The leaves are opposite with a smooth margin. The leaves that originate at the base of the stem are large, while the two leaves on the stem are small. Blue flowers with yellow centers first mature in mid-spring and continue into mid summer. This plant is showy but needs to be planted with little competition (such as lawns, path edges, or in bare areas. The spring rosettes this plant reduces can be transplanted.

This lovely, delicate, flowering plant is often found in striking patches of light blue. The Star Violet (H. pusilla), to 4 in high, has a tiny purple flower and occurs in fields and open woods from South Dakota east to Maryland and south to Florida and Texas. A tall southern species, 6-16 in high, Large Houstonia (H. purpurea), has 3-5, ribbed, opposite, ovate leaves, and white or pink flowers. It occurs from Nebraska northeast to Maine and south to Florida and Texas. It is found naturally in forests, lawns, and disturbed sites. These and certain other Houstonia species have sometimes been placed in the genus Hedyotis.  

Fire Risk: This plant has a low flammability rating.

Regions:  Mountain, Piedmont, Coastal plains

Seasons of Interest: 

  Blooms:   Spring           Nut/Fruit/Seed:  Summer

Wildlife Value: This plant is moderately resistant to damage from deer.  Its flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies and other pollinators.