Phacelia bolanderi

Herbaceous Perennial

A hardy species of low-growing, clump-forming perennial to around 20cm in height, with sprawling, hairy stems and green, vine-like toothed, hairy leaves. Clusters of pale, lavender-blue, flared, trumpet-shaped flowers, crinkled around the petal edges, contain blue pollen that offers a source of nectar for bees and butterflies, and appear from May until August. A great choice for woodland planting and drought and shade-tolerant once established, although the plants may become dormant and lose their leaves in these conditions

Position

Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.1-0.5 metres

Max Spread

0.5-1 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.5-1 metres
Max Height
0.1-0.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline

Position

Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H4
Drought Resistance
Yes

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Boraginaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy, Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Skin allergen. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Genus
Phacelia can be annuals, biennials or perennials with pinnately divided leaves and racemes or panicles of tubular or bell-shaped blue, white or yellow flowers, attractive to insects
Name Status
Correct

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in any fertile, well-drained soil in part or dappled shade. If the soil dries out, then the plant may become dormant and lose its leaves

Propagation

Propagate by seed in spring or autumn. Self-seeds freely. Seeds require a period of winter low temperatures to germinate effectively

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Ground cover

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free, but may be susceptible to slugs, snails and aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to root rots in very wet soils and grey moulds