Silverleaf Phacelia
Silverleaf phacelia (Phacelia hastata) is a highly variable perennial commonly found on rocky slopes.
- From the taproot, a branched woody base will have several silver-haired stems.
- Some stems will be prostate and some will be more erect.
- Elliptical-shaped veined leaves are silvery and bristly.
- White or lavender-white flowers in clusters form with distinctive stamens
- Bloom time – April to July
All photos by the author. Click an image for a lightbox view and caption,
- Capsules form after flowering.
- Found on rocky slopes and dry areas, often south-facing.
- Phacelia is an evergreen plant. Leaves become faded and weathered in winter, but remain on the plant.
- Part of the waterleaf family, it is sometimes called scorpionweed (stamens look like the tail of a scorpion)
- Attractive to local bees, providing pollen and nectar
- An attractive plant for a dry rockery; drought tolerant once established.
- The flowers, stems, and seed pods are covered in hairs covered with oils that can cause a rash and effects similar to poison ivy.
- Another related phacelia found in our area is thread-leaved phacelia (Phacelia linearis), an annual with lavender blue flowers