Phacelia

Phacelia (Annual Phacelia), also known as lacy phacelia, or blue/purple tansy, is a quick-growing, flowering plant that can reach heights of up to 4 feet. This crop is adaptable to a wide range of soils ranging in pH from 5.5 to 8.6.  It can withstand cold temperatures of about 20 degrees Fahrenheit, making it an an excellent choice for fall. Many farmers have used Phacelia (Annual Phacelia) as a source of high quality nectar and pollen to increase the population and diversity of beneficial insects for their crops.

It was originally native to the Southwestern United States and northern Mexico but it is now used in many places in as a cover crop. It is superb for bees and honey production. Long, coiling inflorescences of nectar-rich flowers open in sequence, giving a long flowering period. It blooms mid-late summer when other blossoms have disappeared. It is an attractant for beneficial insects and an ornamental plant. It is a good insectary plant, attracting many pollinators. It is easy to plant, has excellent germination and does not require inoculant, thou inoculant will increase germination and speed the growing process..

• 5-10 day germination
• Grows 2 – 4′ Tall
• Nitrogen and calcium accumulation
• Attracts bees and beneficial insects
• Competes well with weeds
• Plant in early fall in most climates
• Excellent for cover crop mixes

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