California Gilia
Gilia achilleifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
California Gilia (Gilia achilleifolia) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Gilia achilleifolia is a delicate annual wildflower with finely divided, fern-like foliage and lavender-blue to purple flowers that bloom in spring. It grows 4-24 inches tall in a somewhat airy form, making it an excellent addition to wildflower gardens and borders.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Gilia is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: backyard only, mid zone, street edge.
- Annual life cycle means seasonal appearance changes
- Can look sparse or untidy after blooming
- May self-seed unpredictably
Wildlife value
Gilia achilleifolia is valuable to native bees and attracts various butterfly species as a nectar source. Its spring blooms provide important early-season forage for pollinators.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does California Gilia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.