Mertensia ciliata are oval to lance-shaped and pointed. The inflorescence is an open array of many clustered blue bell-shaped flowers each between 1 and 2 centimeters long. The hanging, fragrant flower is tubular, expanding into a wider, lobed mouth. The flowers and leaves are edible. As the individual flowers progress in age they change in color from blue to pink-red. The flowers bear poricidal anthers and are fertilized via buzz-pollination by several "Bombus" species. Primary Nectar robbing by "Bombus" species, including "Bombus occidentalis" is common in some populations. Mertensia ciliata Mertensia ciliata is a species of flowering plant in the borage family
Borage may lead to prolific spreading. In temperate climate such as in the UK, its flowering season is relatively long, from June to September. In milder climates, borage will bloom continuously for most of the year. Traditionally borage was cultivated for culinary and medicinal uses, although today commercial cultivation is mainly as an oilseed. Borage is used as either a fresh vegetable or a dried herb. As a fresh vegetable, borage, with a cucumber-like taste, is often used in salads or as a garnish. The flower has a sweet honey-like taste and is often used to decorate desserts and cocktails. Vegetable