Smallflower Phacelia
Phacelia dubia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, DE, GA and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Smallflower phacelia is a low-growing annual wildflower that produces small blue to purple flowers in spring. This compact native plant forms neat clumps and provides early season color when many other plants are just emerging.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smallflower Phacelia takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual lifecycle means gaps when plants die
- Small flowers may appear weedy to HOAs
- Unpredictable reseeding creates uneven appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers are valuable early nectar sources for native bees, butterflies, and moths when few other blooms are available. It's particularly important for supporting pollinators during the critical spring emergence period.
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 Smallflower Phacelia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.