Why choose native plants? Pacific Northwest native plants know how to live here and how to thrive here. They often need much less water and less fertilizer. They spread slowly and are not invasive. They support a wide diversity of wildlife. And best of all, they look great!
This tough wildflower is normally found east of the Cascades and, more rarely, on cliff embankments around the Olympic Peninsula and Whidbey Island. Threadleaf phacelia is adapted to dry, gravel, or sandy conditions with small, thin leaves that minimize the plant’s need for water. This trait allows it to persist in harsh conditions where many other native plants can’t compete with tougher, drought-adapted weeds. Most phacelia species are pollinator magnets, and this one is no exception. One interesting group of insect visitors that are often uniquely attracted to this plant are the uncommon, gentle (and sometimes very rare!) masarid wasps, an unusual group of wasps that collect pollen to feed their offspring — just like bees. While very tolerant of drought and neglect, threadleaf phacelia will produce larger plants and more flowers when it grows in rich soils and with ample water. Grows to 2′ tall depending on water and soil. Image courtesy of Northwest Meadowscapes.
