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Desertbells (Phacelia campanularia)

Desertbells (Phacelia campanularia) is a striking annual wildflower native to California, known for its vibrant, bell-shaped blue flowers that bloom profusely in spring and early summer.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Prefers full sun to partial shade.

Watering

Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Soil

Well-draining soil. Tolerates sandy or rocky soils but prefers average garden soil.

Temperature

Thrives in moderate temperatures.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Generally does not require heavy feeding.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun to partial shade.

At least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is ideal.

Water

Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Reduce watering in cooler months.

Soil

Well-draining soil. Tolerates sandy or rocky soils but prefers average garden soil.

Temperature

Thrives in moderate temperatures.

Ideal range is 15-25 °C.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Generally does not require heavy feeding.

A light feeding in spring is sufficient if soil is poor.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Category

Flowering, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Annuals

Plant Height

0.15-0.3 m

Spread

0.2-0.4 m

Growth Rate

Fast

Dormancy

None (annual)

Leaf Color

Green

Leaf Type

Lobed

Flower Size

2-3 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

60000

Image Gallery

Flowering & Fruiting Cycles

Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.

Northern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · AprPeak fruit · Apr
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths75
Southern hemisphere

Flowering & fruiting calendar

Peak bloom · SepPeak fruit · Aug
FloweringFruiting
02468JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecActivity intensityMonths75
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderBoraginales
  • familyBoraginaceae
  • genusPhacelia
  • speciesPhacelia campanularia
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

Edible

No

Non-toxic to pets and humans.

Additional Care Tips

Water moderately, ensuring good drainage. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Drought tolerant once established but performs best with consistent moisture.

Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms and prolong the flowering season. Remove the entire plant after it sets seed or at the end of its life cycle.

Easily grown from seed sown directly in the garden in early spring or fall. Seeds germinate quickly and require minimal care.

Not applicable as it is an annual plant. If grown in pots, the entire plant is typically discarded after flowering.

FAQs

When is the best time to plant Desertbells seeds?

Sow seeds directly outdoors in early spring after the last frost, or in fall in milder climates for an earlier bloom.

How much water does Phacelia campanularia need?

Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. It is relatively drought-tolerant once established but performs best with consistent moisture.

Can Desertbells be grown in pots?

Yes, Desertbells grow well in pots and containers, provided they have good drainage and receive adequate sunlight.

Does Desertbells attract pollinators?

Yes, its vibrant blue flowers are very attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

What kind of soil is best for Desertbells?

They prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or rocky conditions, but average garden soil is ideal.