Description

The California phacelia thrives in coastal and interior coastal mountains in the northern half of the state, with occasional sightings elsewhere. It is especially abundant in the SF Bay Area, though even here it has a patchy distribution. One finds it growing here and there in sunny dry areas with well draining soil. The compound leaves form a neat little mound. In spring the lavender flowers appear, arranged in tight, arching groups. The unusual shape of these flower clusters explains some of the common name: ‘scorpionweed’. The flowers attract many pollinators, including the endangered mission blue butterfly. California phacelia may last only a single season, but the abundant seed production guarantees many volunteers the following year under favorable conditions.