Native Habitat:
Open forests, forest edges, and rocky slopes.
 
Bloom Time:
May – July
 
Growth Habit & Mature Size:
Perennial herb, 12–24 inches tall, with erect stems and broad, oval-shaped leaves. Produces tubular, blue to violet flowers along the upper stems, often with a showy throat.
 
Light & Soil Requirements:
Full sun to partial shade; thrives in well-drained sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. Tolerates seasonal dryness once established.
 
Willamette Valley Native Companion Plants:
Camassia quamash, Achillea millefolium, Eriophyllum lanatum, Sidalcea campestris, Festuca roemeri.
 
Urban Garden Function:
Provides vibrant seasonal flowers, vertical interest, and pollinator support to urban meadows, rock gardens, and naturalized landscapes. Works well in layered native plantings, low-maintenance borders, and habitat-focused garden designs.
 
Wildlife Supported:
Flowers attract native bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies. Foliage provides shelter for insects and small invertebrates.
 
Historical Use:
Used ornamentally for its early- to mid-summer blooms; valued in naturalized and pollinator-friendly garden plantings.