Scorpionweed Phacelia purshii

Miami mist is a native annual forb in the borage family (Boraginaceae) that is native to mountainous regions of eastern and central USA and Canada. In NC it is found primarily in the mountains and northwest Piedmont. It is often found growing at forest edges, stream banks, disturbed areas and moist fields and meadows. The genus name Phacelia is from the Greek word for "cluster", referring to the grouping of the flowers. The specific epithet purshii honors the German botanist Frederick Traugott Pursh. The common name, Miami mist doesn't refer to the FL city but to the Miami Native American people who lived in the Great Lakes region and the Great Miami River in Ohio.

Miami mist grows to about 1-2 feet tall and can be erect or sprawling. It does best in full sun to partial shade in fertile moist soils. Although it can be found growing near bogs it does best in well-drained soils. Propagation is by seeds.

The attractive flowers occur in spring into summer and occur in clusters of lavender to light blue (occasionally white) flowers with white centers and fringed edges. Leaves are variable in size and shape. After blooming capsules form with 2-4 seeds and the plant dies shortly after.

This annual is appropriate for garden use in the border, along streams or ponds or mass-planted in naturalized areas. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems.