California Phacelia
Phacelia californica
Last reviewed: July 2026
Phacelia californica is a native California wildflower that blooms with blue-purple flowers from March through June. This drought-tolerant forb attracts bees and butterflies in full sun gardens.
California Phacelia (Phacelia californica) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), 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
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
California phacelia is a low-growing native wildflower with fuzzy, gray-green foliage and lovely lavender-blue flower clusters. It blooms profusely in spring through early summer, forming an attractive ground cover or border plant that requires minimal water once established.
Growing California Phacelia
Grow California Phacelia in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Phacelia is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Annual nature means seasonal appearance changes
- May look untidy after blooming period
- Could appear too informal for front-yard focal areas
Wildlife value
Highly attractive to native bees and butterflies as an important nectar source. The abundant blooms support diverse pollinator species during its flowering period.
Common questions
- When does Phacelia californica bloom?
- California Phacelia typically blooms from March through June, producing clusters of blue to purple flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Phacelia californica?
- This native wildflower is particularly valued by bees and butterflies, making it an excellent choice for pollinator gardens in California and Oregon.
- Where is Phacelia californica native?
- California Phacelia is native to California and Oregon, where it grows naturally in chaparral, oak woodlands, and grassland communities.
- How much water does Phacelia californica need?
- This drought-tolerant native requires low water once established, making it well-suited for water-wise landscaping and natural gardens in its native range.
- Is California Phacelia toxic to dogs?
- California Phacelia is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Phacelia toxic to cats?
- California Phacelia is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Phacelia HOA-friendly?
- California Phacelia is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow California Phacelia? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz