Phacelia campanularia (Desert Bluebell)

Phacelia campanularia (Desert Bluebell) is a cool season annual boasting attractive clusters of bell-shaped, cobalt blue flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), adorned with protruding stamens with light-colored anthers.

Phacelia campanularia (Desert Bluebell) is a cool season annual boasting attractive clusters of bell-shaped, cobalt blue flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), adorned with protruding stamens with light-colored anthers. Blooming for about 4 weeks in spring, they rise with elegance on long, reddish stems above the foliage of coarsely toothed, dark green leaves. Beloved of bees and bumblebees, Desert Bluebell looks stunning with California poppies. Easy to grow, Phacelia campanularia adds charming blue color to the wildflower garden or rock garden.

  • Grow up to 6-18 in. tall and wide (15-45 cm). Once established, it will self propagate.
  • Thrives in full sun in fertile, well-drained soils. Irrigate only if rains fail.
  • Low maintenance and highly disease and pest free, this plant is also drought tolerant.
  • An excellent choice for mixed borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, wildlife gardens or prairie gardens.
  • Propagate by seed sown in situ in spring or autumn.
  • Contact with skin may cause irritation
  • Native to California deserts.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 10

Heat Zones 1
– 9

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Annuals
Plant Family Phacelia
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Mid,Late)
Height 6"
– 2'
(15cm
– 60cm)
Spread 6"
– 2'
(15cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 12″
– 18″
(30cm
– 45cm)
Water Needs Low
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Native Plants United States, California, Northeast, New York
Tolerance Drought, Dry Soil
Attracts Bees, Butterflies
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Prairie and Meadow