Distant phacelia
Phacelia distans · Hydrophyllaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant distant phacelia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Hydrophyllaceae
- Type
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-July)
- Flower color
- Blue-violet or lavender
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness (freezes easily)
- Growth
- Fast
- Origin
- North and Central America
Care
Light exposure
Phacelia distans thrives in full sun or partial shade. Place it in a location receiving at least 4 to 6 hours of direct light daily for abundant flowering. It tolerates partially shaded areas but blooms less profusely.
Regular watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during growth and flowering. Water moderately and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Reduce watering slightly at the end of the growing cycle.
Soil type
Phacelia prefers well-draining, light, and fertile soil. A potting mix rich in organic matter promotes vigorous growth. You can enrich the soil with humus or well-decomposed compost before planting.
Moderate fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer every 3 to 4 weeks during flowering. Do not exceed recommended doses, as excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. A diluted liquid fertilizer works perfectly.
Pinching and cleanup
Pinch young stems to encourage branching and a bushy shape. Regularly remove spent flowers to extend flowering time. Light removal of diseased or damaged leaves keeps the plant healthy.
Vigilance against pests
Phacelia distans is generally robust but may be attacked by aphids or spider mites in dry conditions. Inspect foliage regularly and avoid dry air conditions. Prevent stagnant humidity that promotes mold.
Did you know?
Phacelia distans is a highly valued melliferous plant prized by beekeepers and pollinators: its delicate flowers produce abundant nectar and pollen. In some regions, it is intentionally sown in gardens or crops to attract bees and improve pollination of neighboring crops.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- PhaceliaPhacelia tanacetifolia
- Virginia waterleafHydrophyllum virginianum
- Baby blue eyesNemophila menziesii
- Silverleaf phaceliaPhacelia hastata
- Caterpillar phaceliaPhacelia cicutaria
- CamelliaCamellia japonica
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.