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Skyblue Phacelia

Phacelia coerulea

Last reviewed: June 2026

Skyblue Phacelia (Phacelia coerulea)
Photo: Patrick Alexander from Las Cruces, NM / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

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

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.

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 Skyblue Phacelia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.