Phacelia tanacetifolia

A Borage family (Boraginaceae) annual wildflower native to the deserts of Southwestern U.S. and Northern Mexico and now widely cultivated. It is grown as a drought tolerant cover crop that brings in an array of pollinators. Its dense, shallow root system helps to improve soil structure. Attracts hover flies, a natural predator of pests like aphids. Heavy nectar production!

Lacy phacelia plants can be smooth or covered in silvery hairs, they can grow 2- 4 feet tall and 1 ½ feet wide and have dissected, ferny leaves. The flowering stems are topped with fiddlehead-shaped flower stems that unfurl in spring and summer giving a long and steady supply of pollen, nectar, and color. The flowers are light to mid-blue and lavender hues with long purple pistils and stamens reaching out for pollination. Plants put on most vegetative growth in milder conditions.  

Seeds germinate in cool soils, direct sow in fall or spring. Cover seeds to germinate as exposure to light can prevent germination. Keep consistent moisture until sprouted.

Seedlings can overwinter in areas with mild frosts. In those areas, seeds can be direct sown or started in late summer.

Packet: 150 seeds