Blue Tansy
Phacelia tanacetifolia
Blue tansy is a striking annual wildflower with intricate fern-like foliage and coiling clusters of vivid blue-lavender bells, renowned as one of the best bee-attracting plants and a valuable cover crop.
Hydrophyllaceae (Waterleaf family)
Spring to early summer (April–July); can bloom in autumn if sown in early fall
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: red silk cotton flowers and silver trumpet trees also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Blue tansy has earned a beloved reputation in sustainable and ecological gardening communities as one of the most generous plants for pollinators. While it lacks the mythological symbolism of older cultivated flowers, it has become a modern emblem of biodiversity, ecological harmony, and the beauty of the wild. Its intense blue-violet color makes it a standout in any meadow planting.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun
Water
Moderate; tolerates dry spells once established; self-seeds freely in suitable conditions
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile, Loamy, Sandy, Clay (tolerant)
Expert Growing Tips
Sow seeds directly in the ground in early spring or early autumn — they do not transplant well
Self-seeds readily, so allow a few plants to set seed for naturalized patches
Use as a companion plant to attract beneficial insects and suppress weeds
Handle with gloves — the hairy stems and leaves can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals
Excellent green manure: dig into soil before it sets seed to enrich beds
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Wildflower meadow mixes and cottage gardens
- Pollinator strips and bee pasture plantings
- Cover crop and green manure in vegetable gardens
- Cut flower gardens (informal arrangements)
- Borders and naturalized plantings
Traditional Uses
- Not traditionally used as a medicinal herb (not to be confused with Tanacetum annuum, also called "blue tansy," whose essential oil is used in aromatherapy)
- Phacelia tanacetifolia is primarily valued as a habitat and cover crop plant rather than for medicinal purposes
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Tansy
What is blue tansy flower used for?
Blue tansy (Phacelia tanacetifolia) is primarily used as an ornamental wildflower, a bee-attracting companion plant, and a green manure cover crop. It is one of the top bee-forage plants and is widely used in sustainable agriculture and pollinator gardens.
Is blue tansy the same as blue tansy essential oil?
No. Blue tansy essential oil typically comes from Tanacetum annuum, a different plant. Phacelia tanacetifolia, the common "blue tansy" wildflower, is not the same species and is not used to produce this oil.
Does blue tansy attract bees?
Yes — blue tansy is considered one of the best bee-attracting plants available. Its nectar-rich flowers are highly attractive to honeybees, bumblebees, and many native bee species.
Is blue tansy an annual or perennial?
Blue tansy (Phacelia tanacetifolia) is an annual. It completes its life cycle in one growing season but self-seeds freely, often appearing to return year after year in the garden.
Can blue tansy cause skin irritation?
Yes. The hairy stems and leaves of Phacelia tanacetifolia can cause contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Wearing gloves when handling the plant is recommended.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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