Phacelia

Wildflower Species Types of Flowers Bigelow's Monkey Flower Brown-eyed Primrose Chia Chuparosa Creosote Bush Desert Chicory Desert Dandelion Desert Lupine Desert Purple Mat Fremont Pincushion Popcorn Flower

Phacelia (Phacelia distans) is also known as Wild Heliotrope, and it is a member of the Waterleaf Family (Hydrophyllaceae).

The flowers often grow fairly close to the ground in blue or light purple clusters. It can also be found on mountain slopes.

It is a native plant in the desert Southwest, and oddly enough, a small poulation is found in northern Wisconsin.

There are no distinct records or cultural history associated with the flower's edibility. When in doubt, leave it out of the salad.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels