Silverleaf Scorpionweed

(Phacelia hastata)

Silverleaf Scorpionweed (Phacelia hastata)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Phacelia hastata image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Phacelia hastata, commonly known as Silverleaf Scorpionweed, is a perennial herb native to a variety of habitats in western North America, including sagebrush desert, dry mountain slopes, and alpine meadows, from British Columbia and Alberta south to California and east to Nebraska. It is adapted to high elevations, up to 13,000 feet. This species typically grows to a height of 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) and spreads 12 inches (30 cm) wide. Silverleaf Scorpionweed has distinctive deeply veined, gray-green leaves that are covered with fine hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. From late spring to early summer, it produces showy cymes of white or lavender flowers that are attractive to pollinators such as bees.

In cultivation, Phacelia hastata is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is often used in wildflower gardens and as a border plant in areas with dry, sandy to rocky soil. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can be grown in full sun to part shade. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Gardeners should be aware that Phacelia hastata can self-seed prolifically under ideal conditions, potentially becoming weedy.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous, Semi-deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to sagebrush desert, dry mountain slopes, and alpine meadows in western North America

Other Names

Common Names: Scorpionweed, Silver-Leaf Scorpion-Weed, Spearhead Phacelia, Silver-Leaved Phacelia, Silver-Leaved Scorpionweed, Whiteleaf Phacelia

Scientific Names: , Phacelia hastata, Hydrophyllum paniculatum, Hydrophyllum paniculatum, Phacelia alpina, Phacelia biennis, Phacelia burkei, Phacelia canescens, Phacelia hastata, Phacelia hastata subsp. hastata

GBIF Accepted Name: