Guide to growing California Bluebell - Phacelia
Phacelia are hardy annuals that reach from 30 to 60cm in height.
Phacelia have a bush nature and carry heart shaped leaves; sometimes toothed.
They bloom in the summer when they carry blue or lavender bell shaped flowers.
Some of the common names for Phacelia include California Bluebell and Wild Heliotrope.
How to grow California Bluebell
It is best to grow California bluebells outdoors from seeds. Sow about 6mm deep before the last frost of spring. California bluebells and other Phacelia like to grow in sunny areas and likes a soil of pH 6.5 to 7. The soil type is not too important. It typically takes from two to four weeks for the seeds to germinate once the temperature reaches 12 to 16 degrees Celsius. Smaller species of Phacelia should be grown about 15cm apart and larger varieties 25 to 30cm apart.
Caring for California Bluebell - Phacelia
Once growing strongly young California Bluebells plants should be pinched back at the tips to facilitate branching. Phacelia species are tolerant of dry weather so only need to be watered in extremely dry conditions.