Gilia capitata (Blue Gilia)

Gilia capitata (Blue Gilia) is an erect annual boasting dense, rounded clusters packed with up to 50-100 tiny powder-blue flowers with protruding white, blue or pink stamens. Resembling pincushions, the charming blossoms, 1-2 in. across (2-5 cm), bloom from late spring to midsummer and provide weeks of color. They are borne atop branching stems and rise above the bright green fern-like leaves, divided into toothed or lobed leaflets. Rich in nectar, the flowers attract many pollinators, including butterflies, native bees, and honey bees. Tough, Blue Gilia is easy to grow, drought tolerant and requires little care. Perfect for the dry Mediterranean garden.

• Grows up to 6-24 in. tall (15-60 cm) and 9 in. wide (22 cm). Self-sows readily in the garden and reliably returns each spring.
• Thrives in full sun, in light, moderately fertile, well-drained soils. Tolerates clay but does best in well-drained soil. Water maximum twice per month in summer.
• A wonderful addition to the garden, this enthusiastic bloomer is well suited to beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, butterfly gardens, or prairies and meadows.
• Easy-care plant with no serious pest or disease issues.
• Cut back after flowering
• Propagate by seed. Seeds may be sown from autumn to early spring, but germination is better when planted with autumn rains. No pretreatment is necessary, although two weeks of stratification improves germination.
• Native to much of western North America from Alaska to northern Mexico.