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Imbricate Phacelia

Phacelia imbricata var. imbricata

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun, part shade

Water

low

Soil

well-draining, sandy or gravelly soil

Size

1–2ft tall , 1–2ft wide

Bloom

Apr-Jun

Foliage

Deciduous

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Desert and semi-arid areas of northeastern California and the inland mountains from Inyo County to Modoc County, 3000-7000 ft elevation, extending to Oregon and Nevada.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Imbricate Phacelia in full sun with well-draining soil - it tolerates both sandy and clay soils, so drainage matters more than soil type. Space plants to accommodate their mature size of 1 to 2.5 feet tall. Plant in fall or early winter to take advantage of the natural rainy season, which supports establishment before the dry months arrive. This native perennial is almost always grown from seed, so check that you're starting with seed rather than a nursery plant.

After Planting

Water regularly during the first growing season, then cut back dramatically once established - by summer of year two, you should only need to water once a month or less. Stop supplemental watering altogether in winter and early spring when this plant naturally flowers (April through June). The #1 mistake is overwatering: this is a low-water native that actually prefers neglect once established, so err on the side of dry rather than wet. Expect the plant to be deciduous and go dormant in summer heat, which is completely normal.

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