Phacelia californica (California Phacelia)

Phacelia californica (California Phacelia) is a decumbent to erect perennial boasting dense, tightly coiled clusters of pale blue to lavender flowers with long, conspicuous stamens. Resembling the tail of a scorpion, they provide pollen and nectar for native bees and other beneficial insects during an extended blooming period. The flowers provide an important nectar source for the endangered Mission blue butterfly. Blooming from early spring to late summer, they emerge from a lush rosette of ovate, generally compound leaves, 8 in. long (20 cm), adorned with prominent veins. The attractive blossoms, long blooming period, and drought tolerance of California Phacelia make it an excellent wildflower species to use in water-wise gardens, low maintenance, and naturalistic landscapes. A great plant for a dry rockery. Native to coastal northern California and Oregon, California Phacelia occurs naturally in chaparral, woodland, and coastal bluffs and grassland.

• Grow up to 6-18 in. tall (15-45 cm) and 12-24 in. wide (30-60 cm).
• Thrives in full sun to part shade in dry, well-drained soils. Do not irrigate once established. Drought tolerant once established.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• An excellent choice for rock gardens, wildlife gardens or prairie gardens.
• Native to coastal northern California and Oregon.