Phacelia tanacetifolia aka Fiddleneck

Phacelia tanacetifolia, also known as lacy phacelia, blue tansy, or purple tansy, is a species of flowering plant in the borage family Boraginaceae. It is a robust winter annual that can reach heights ranging from 20 to 120cm. The plant features fern-like pinnately cut leaves, which can have a grey-green hue. During the summer, Phacelia tanacetifolia produces an abundance of densely set soft blue or lavender-blue flowers in terminal, curved cymes. These beautiful blooms are highly attractive to bees and other insects, making it a favorite among bee lovers. Belonging to the Raublattgewächse family, this herbaceous plant has a deep-rooted system that penetrates the soil. Its feathery, initially rolled-up leaves resemble those of the tansy plant, but caution should be exercised as they can cause skin rashes upon contact. From June to September, the plant showcases tuft-like inflorescences in shades of light blue to blue-violet. These inflorescences not only attract bees but also other beneficial insects such as bumblebees, hoverflies, and butterflies. Phacelia tanacetifolia is known for its robustness and undemanding nature, although it is not hardy.