Phacelia californica, California Phacelia

California Phacelia is also known by the common name California Scorpionweed. A low elevation species inhabiting bluffs, open slopes, road cuts and canyons of our inner and outer Coast Ranges, it can make a small mound less than a foot high in the wild but become a three-foot plant with garden water. It forms clumps of crinkled gray leaves. Stout stems rise above the rosette one foot to 18 inches tall with large coils of lavender flowers. Excellent rock garden subject. Plant in a sunny areas with good drainage where it will be drought tolerant, and will do fine with a little summer water. Phacelias are great for attracting bees and butterflies. It will be constantly visited as long as it’s in bloom. This native wildflower is a food source for the rare Mission blue butterfly, also.

It should be noted that there are a very large number of species in the genus Phacelia. Most are annuals. This one is perennial. Gardeners should look for species appropriate to their area and garden conditions.