Bolander's Phacelia — Bay Area Native Plants

Care

Sun

full sun, part shade

Water

moderate

Soil

Fast, Medium, Slow; Adaptable.

Size

0–3ft tall

Bloom

Mar-Aug

Deer

Resistant

Container

Friendly

Flowers

Prized

Native Range

Endemic to the North Coast Ranges in Mendocino County, below 2000 ft elevation, in grassland and oak woodland habitats.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant Bolander's Phacelia in full sun in a location with fast to medium drainage - it's adaptable to various soil types, so don't stress about amending heavily. You can start from seed with no special treatment needed. Space plants according to their mature size, which ranges from about 5 inches to 3 feet depending on growing conditions. Plant in spring for best establishment.

After Planting

Water moderately during the first growing season to help it establish, then ease off as it matures and becomes drought-tolerant. This is a moderate-care plant, so expect a low-maintenance year one once roots are established. Since it blooms heavily during the hottest summer months (typically March through August), you may see it flowering when most other plants are struggling - that's normal and a sign you're doing it right. The biggest mistake is overwatering; this plant prefers drier conditions, so let the soil dry between waterings rather than keeping it constantly moist.

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