Purple Tansy, Lacy Phacelia (Phacelia tanacetifolia)

Lacy Phacelia, scientifically known as Phacelia tanacetifolia, is a delicate and attractive annual wildflower native to North America. This plant belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is celebrated for its finely divided, fern-like leaves and clusters of beautiful, tubular, lavender-blue flowers.

Lacy Phacelia, scientifically known as Phacelia tanacetifolia, is a delicate and attractive annual wildflower native to North America. This plant belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is celebrated for its finely divided, fern-like leaves and clusters of beautiful, tubular, lavender-blue flowers. The flowers have a distinct lacy appearance, which contributes to its common name. Lacy Phacelia typically grows to a height of 1 to 3 feet, and it’s known for its feathery foliage that adds an elegant touch to gardens and natural landscapes.

Historical Information:  Lacy Phacelia has gained popularity over the years for its ornamental value and its role in supporting pollinators. It’s also known for its potential as a cover crop, where it can improve soil quality due to its ability to fix nitrogen.

Fun Facts:  Lacy Phacelia is a favorite among beekeepers and gardeners for its prolific nectar production, making it a valuable source of food for pollinators, particularly honeybees and bumblebees.

It’s a versatile plant that can be used as both an ornamental addition to gardens and as a beneficial cover crop in agricultural practices.

Materials Needed for Growing Lacy Phacelia from Seeds:

Lacy Phacelia seeds
Well-draining soil
Garden trowel or spade
Planting container or garden space
Watering can or hose
Mulch (optional)

Steps to Grow Lacy Phacelia from Seeds:

Seed Preparation: Lacy Phacelia seeds typically don’t require any special pretreatment. They can be sown directly without scarification or stratification.

Select a Planting Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden or a container with well-draining soil. Lacy Phacelia thrives in full sun.

Plant the Seeds: Scatter the seeds on the soil surface and gently press them into the soil, ensuring they have good soil-to-seed contact. Space the seeds 6 to 12 inches apart.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Lacy Phacelia requires regular watering during the germination and establishment period.

Mulch (Optional): Adding a layer of mulch around the seedlings can help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Maintenance: Lacy Phacelia is generally low-maintenance. Regular watering and thinning if needed can promote healthy growth.

Precautions: Lacy Phacelia is generally safe to grow and handle. However, individuals with plant allergies should be cautious when handling it.

Ornamental: Lacy Phacelia is a lovely addition to gardens, meadows, and natural landscapes, with its delicate foliage and vibrant, lacy flowers.

Pollinator Garden: It is a top choice for pollinator gardens due to its abundant nectar production, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Cover Crop: In agriculture, Lacy Phacelia is used as a cover crop to improve soil health, prevent erosion, and suppress weeds.