California Bluebells (Phacelia campanularia)

California Bluebells or Desertbells (Phacelia campanularia) is an annual in the Waterleaf family (Hydrophyllaceae). Sometimes it is listed as California bluebells; always check the botanical name because there are many species of phacelia available. Desertbells leaves are light gray-green and oval. The bell-shaped flowers are deep blue with white stamens. It blooms from February through April in the desert, providing a much-needed early food source for pollinators. In cooler regions, it blooms from spring through early summer. In the wild, it is endemic (limited) to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts in California. As an easy-to-grow annual wildflower, however, it is commonly found in native wildflower seed mixes. After the rainy season begins in autumn, scatter the seeds onto sandy or rocky soil. Good drainage and full sun is best. Desertbells are beautiful growing in a patch, or mixed with California poppies, golden blazing stars, or creamcups (Platystemon californicus). Allow the flowers to produce and drop seeds for more flowers next year. From Calscape.

Grower: Nature's Seed

Other Names Used: Desert Bluebells, Desert Bells

Family: Hydrophyllaceae 

Life Cycle: Annual

Plant Type: Herb

Sun Exposure: Full

Bloom Period: Winter, Spring (February to April)

Bloom Color(s): Blue, Purple

Plant Height: 1-2 feet tall

Plant Width: 1-2 feet wide

California Regions:

• Southern Coast
• Southern California Inland
• Desert

Ecological Benefits:

• Drought Tolerant
  
• Attracts pollinators, bats
  

Ecological Functions:

• Sandy or gravelly places

Habitat Type:

• Creosote Bush Scrub
• Joshua Tree Woodland 
  

Human Uses/Cautions: 

Skill Level: Beginner

Seed Pretreatment: None