Desert Bluebells

(Phacelia campanularia)

Desert Bluebells (Phacelia campanularia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Phacelia campanularia, commonly known as desert bluebells, is an annual herb in the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts of California, where it thrives in sandy or gravelly soils, often in washes and open, disturbed sites. This plant typically grows to a height of 0.7 meters (2.3 ft) with an erect stem. The inflorescence is a cyme, with each flower displaying a bright blue corolla up to 4 centimeters long, which can be bell-shaped, funnel-shaped, or round and flattened, sometimes featuring white spots in the throat. The stamens and style, which can be 4.5 centimeters long, often protrude from the corolla, adding to the plant’s ornamental appeal. Flowering occurs in the spring, and the resulting fruit is a capsule up to 1.5 centimeters long.

Desert bluebells are valued for their vibrant blue flowers, which add a splash of color to arid garden settings. They are often used in wildflower mixes, rock gardens, and as border plants. In cultivation, desert bluebells require full sun, low water, and well-drained soils. They are relatively low-maintenance and can reseed under optimal conditions. However, gardeners should be aware of its potential invasiveness outside its native range and check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Blue
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to sandy or gravelly soils, often in washes and open, disturbed sites in the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts of California

Other Names

Common Names: Desert Bluebells, California Bluebell, Desert Bell, Desert Scorpionweed, Desert Canterbury Bells, Glockenblumen-Büschelschön, Phacélie Campanulée, Klockfacelia

Scientific Names: , Phacelia campanularia, Phacelia campanularia subsp. campanularia, Phacelia minor var. campanularia,

GBIF Accepted Name: Phacelia campanularia A.Gray