Gilia

Sunset

Zones A1-A3, 1-45, H1, H2

Full

Moderate, Minimal

Polemoniaceae
Annuals

Western natives related to phlox. Slender plants with finely cut leaves and colorful flowers from late spring to early fall. Useful in wild garden or borders. In fall or early spring, sow seeds in well-drained soil where plants are to grow. Thin seedlings to avoid crowding.

Gilia capitata, photo courtesy of Annie's Annuals & Perennials

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Gilia capitata

Native from British Columbia to California. Grows 6–24 in. high, about 9 in. wide. Pale violet-blue to blue flowers with blue pollen are carried in dense clusters that look like pincushions.

Gilia tricolor

Native to California. Grows to 4–18 in. high, about 9 in. wide. Subtly beautiful flowers, carried singly or in clusters, are 1/2 in. wide or wider, with pale to deep violet with yellow throat spotted purple; blue pollen.