Skyblue Phacelia
Phacelia coerulea
Last reviewed: June 2026

Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Skyblue phacelia is a low-growing annual wildflower that produces clusters of delicate blue to purple flowers from spring through early summer. This compact native plant thrives in full sun with minimal water, making it ideal for xeriscape gardens. As an annual, it completes its life cycle in one growing season and may self-seed under favorable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Skyblue Phacelia takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual nature means inconsistent appearance year to year
- Can look weedy or unkempt during germination and establishment
- May be viewed as too wild or uncontrolled for formal landscapes
Wildlife value
This plant is highly valued by native bees and butterflies, providing important nectar during the active spring and early summer blooming period. Its flowers are particularly attractive to specialist native bee species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Skyblue Phacelia need?
- Skyblue Phacelia grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Skyblue Phacelia bloom?
- Skyblue Phacelia blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Skyblue Phacelia native?
- Skyblue Phacelia (Phacelia coerulea) is native to AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Skyblue Phacelia attract?
- Skyblue Phacelia draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Skyblue Phacelia HOA-friendly?
- Skyblue Phacelia takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Skyblue 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