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 agressively self-seeds and will quickly show up all over your garden each fall. This may require some curating as you cull any seedlings that may pop up in an inopportune spot.
Caterpillar Phacelia
Full Sun
Part Sun
Part Shade
Low
