Phacelia tanacetifolia is a species of phacelia known by the common names lacy phacelia or purple tansy. It was originally native to the Southwestern United States and northern Mexico, It is a good insectary plant, attracting pollinators such as honey bees. Lacy phacelia growing in or near the garden not only attracts bees, but butterflies as well. Include the purple tansy wildflower near vegetable and ornamental gardens for bigger blooms and vegetables. Lacy phacelia growing is sometimes used in almond orchards for this purpose. Beware of aggressive spread of this plant, however, which multiplies by the spread of rhizomes and self-seeding. Additional lacy phacelia info says purple tansy wildflowers bloom from April through July. They're often found growing in ditches, along roadsides and in open meadows. You can plant them from seeds. Try growing purple tansy wildflower in containers that can be moved around the garden as different areas need pollination. This may help control the spread of the wildflower too. Be sure to include this plant in areas designed to attract butterflies and in water-wise gardens. The lacy phacelia flower grows best in sunny spots where soil is poor, rocky or sandy. If the soil in your flower beds has been amended, try growing the purple tansy wildflower outside of the garden, but close enough that bees and butterflies can conveniently pollinate the garden blooms. Zones: 3 through 10 Height: Up to 3 ft. Flower Color: Light Blue to Purple Plant Type: Annual Light Requirement: Sun Bloom Time: Mid Season.
