Great Valley Phacelia
Phacelia ciliata
Care
full sun
Fast, Medium, Slow
0–1ft tall
Jan-Dec
Friendly
Prized
Great Valley and surrounding foothills of the Central Valley, below 2000 ft elevation, in grassland and scrub habitats.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Great Valley Phacelia in full sun in a location with fast to medium drainage - it tolerates slow-draining soil but prefers quicker drainage. This annual herb is winter and spring-blooming, so plant in fall (September-November in the Bay Area) to establish before the growing season. Space plants about 6-12 inches apart given their modest mature height of 1-2 feet. It adapts well to containers if you want flexibility with placement.
After Planting
Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish the plant, tapering off as it matures since it's adapted to California's drier conditions. As an annual, expect it to complete its lifecycle and flower in winter and spring, then decline as temperatures warm - this is normal behavior, not a sign of failure. Deadheading spent flowers will extend blooming, though it's optional. The main mistake is overwatering once established; resist the urge to keep it consistently moist, as this plant thrives in moderate conditions.
Visit Calscape for more information about Great Valley Phacelia
Wildlife Supported
Insects
early season pollen source for queen establishment and worker rearing
early season pollen provision for ground-nesting solitary bees
early spring bloom provides forage during colony establishment
adult nectar and pollen feeding supports beneficial predatory larvae
early season nectar source for emerging hoverfly populations