Seed package Caterpillar Phacelia is an iconic local wildflower one seldom sees in cultivated gardens. Bush-like in form, with diminutive clusters of flowers that range from white to mauve to lavender and unfurl in graceful, caterpillar-like arabesques, Phacelia cicutaria will thrive in full sun to part shade. Abundant blossoms and a long flowering period make this a favorite with the pollinator crowd. As it can get quite wide, it’s not recommended for planting with smaller wildflower species it might overwhelm.
A couple of caveats: the tiny hairs that cover the stems of Caterpillar Phacelia can be irritating to the skin. (Use regular gardening gloves when handling.) Also, Caterpillar Phacelia self-seeds prolifically and will show up all over your garden each rainy season, potentially overwhelming other plants in its vicinity, so be prepared to cull seedlings if necessary.
