Borraginacées • Phacelia tanacetifolia

Phacelia with tansy leaves - Organic

"A reliable ground cover for pollinators that fosters connections between living soil and pollinators."

$4.49

Number of seeds 500 seeds

Tansy-leaved phacelia ( Phacelia tanacetifolia ) is an annual native to the southwestern United States, long used in ecological gardens as a green manure and bee-friendly plant. Its finely cut foliage resembles that of tansy, hence its French name, and quickly forms a light carpet that covers the ground in a soft green.

Over the weeks, its upright stems become covered in clusters of lavender-blue, crosier-shaped flowers, which are very popular with bees and many other pollinators. In a harmonious vegetable garden, it plays the role of a discreet but effective companion: it protects bare soil, contributes to soil structure, and attracts beneficial wildlife. Its presence fits naturally into a gardening approach that is both productive and respectful of living things.

Growing climate: Cool season
Sowing difficulty level: Easy
Care required: Occasional
Growth: Rapid growth

Annotation: Undemanding plant, tolerating poor soils and slight drought well once established.

Tansy-leaved phacelia is primarily cultivated as a green manure and as a bee plant. Its main purpose is to improve soil structure, limit erosion, and provide nectar for pollinating insects. The sources consulted do not mention any common culinary or medicinal uses for this species.