Overview
Phacelia argentea is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Phacelia, part of the Boraginaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Phacelia argentea grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildflower meadow.
About
Phacelia argentea is a rare species of phacelia known by the common names sand dune phacelia and silvery phacelia. It is native to the coastline of southwestern Oregon and far northwestern California, where it was counted at a total of 33 sites in 1995. It is the only phacelia species endemic to coastal sand dune habitat, an ecosystem which is altered and declining in the area. This is a hairy, fleshy perennial herb growing prostrate or upright to a maximum length near 45 centimeters. In the garden it prefers full sun and loam soil. In UK gardens it is hardy through an average UK winter (RHS H4). Suggested uses include wildlife gardens, cottage and informal garden and wildflower meadow. It tolerates soil of any pH, well-drained conditions and south-facing aspects. Plant after last frost in fertile soil.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Phacelia argentea
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Phacelia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Phacelia argentea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Wildlife gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Phacelia argentea
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Phacelia argentea?
Phacelia argentea prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Phacelia argentea need?
Phacelia argentea grows best in loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Phacelia argentea hardy in the UK?
Phacelia argentea has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Phacelia argentea?
Seed.
