The Phacelia tanacetifolia , commonly known as bee food, is a popular, fast-growing annual plant with blue-violet flowers, which bloom from May to September. It is known for its long flowering period and its ability to attract pollinators.
Phacelia is ideal as a green manure, soil improver, or as a nectar source in bee and butterfly gardens. It is often used in vegetable gardens to promote natural pollination.

Sow direct in early spring or late summer. Sow in a sunny spot, with a thin layer of soil over it. It will then self-seed.

This plant grows well in both poor and rich soils, as long as it is well-drained. It likes sun and can tolerate drought fairly well.

Originally from California, but now popular worldwide in organic horticulture.