Gilia capitata

blue thimble flower
An erect annual with 2-pinnate leaves divided into slender segments, and spherical, pincushion-like heads 2-4cm across in summer, composed of tiny lavender-blue flowers
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Blue | Green | ||
Autumn | ||||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Polemoniaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Gilia can be annuals or perennials, with simple or finely, pinnately divided leaves and salver-shaped or tubular, blue, pink or red flowers that may be solitary, in panicles or dense clusters
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a light, moderately fertile, well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in-situ in mid-spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Rock garden
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease free
Get involved
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