Phacelia Distans
Known commonly as the Wild Heliotrope or Distant Phacelia, this California native is a master of the arid landscape. Its flowers uncurl in a mesmerizing spiral, reminiscent of a scorpion’s tail, revealing delicate lavender blooms that provide a vital lifeline for native bees. While it looks soft and fern-like, this resilient plant is a survivor, painting desert washes and dry hillsides with shades of violet every spring.
The name Phacelia comes from the Greek word phakelos, meaning "bundle," which describes the way the flowers are tightly packed together on their coiled stems!
To grow Phacelia distans plants, you can follow these steps:


To fertilize the unnamed plant, you should use a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer, applied at a rate of 1/2 pound per 100 square feet of soil every two to three months during the growing season. You should also incorporate compost or organic matter into the soil before planting to provide nutrients for the plant's growth. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduced flower production. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer label for application rates and timing.
To support the growth of the plant species, Phacelia Distans, a well-draining soil with a neutral pH level is recommended. The ideal soil should be rich in nutrients while maintaining good drainage capacity to prevent stagnant water and soil compaction. A mixture of loam, sand, and organic matter can be used to create the appropriate texture and quality of soil. The recommended soil type should be able to hold sufficient moisture for the plant's growth while ensuring adequate air circulation around the roots. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the soil is free from pests, diseases, and weed seeds that can harm the plant.
Phacelia distans can be propagated through both seeds and stem cuttings. For propagating through seeds, one should collect the mature seeds from the plant and clean them properly. Then, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture in a seed tray and keep it moist. The seeds will germinate within a few weeks and can be transplanted to the desired location once they have grown enough.
For propagating through stem cuttings, select a healthy stem from the plant and take a cutting of around 6 inches. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture and keep it moist. After a few weeks, the cutting will develop roots and can be transplanted to the desired location.
Both methods of propagation require regular watering and proper care to ensure successful growth. It is important to note that Phacelia distans is an annual plant and will need to be replanted every year.
Explore plants with similar care requirements