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Key characteristics

Family: Boraginaceae
Height: 6 to 12 in
Width: 12 to 18 in
Flower color: Pink buds opening to soft sky blue
Foliage color: Blue-green to silvery blue, thick, smooth, and waxy leaves
Bloom time: Late spring to early summer
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate moisture, prefers cool, well-drained soils and consistent watering during growth
Maintenance: Moderate, benefits from cool conditions, mulch to keep roots cool, avoid hot, dry exposure
Growing zone: USDA zones 3 to 8
Wildlife: Bees, butterflies, other pollinating insects

Groundcovers

Mertensia maritima

Oyster Leaf

Mertensia maritima forms low, spreading clumps of thick, rounded leaves coated in a soft blue-gray bloom that gives the plant a silvery, seaside appearance. The foliage hugs the ground and creates a sculptural presence even before flowering begins. Nodding buds open from pink to clear sky blue, forming loose clusters that gently arch above the leaves.

Blooming from late spring into early summer, this species is native to coastal regions of northern Europe and North America.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate moisture, prefers cool, well-drained soils and consistent watering during growth

Bloom time

Late spring to early summer

Find this plant

Works well in

Coastal Gardens
Rock Gardens
Containers
Pollinator Gardens

Companion plants

Thyme · Rockroses · Armerias · Lavender · Sedums · Blue oat grass

Design tip

Plant this coastal perennial among gravel and stone where its silvery foliage and soft blue flowers can stand out naturally. Combine drought-tolerant companions with contrasting forms and repeating textures to create a relaxed planting that reflects the character of seaside landscapes.