Gilia

These annuals are found growing wild over various parts of North America. They are erect or sprawling and 2 to 3 feet high. The foliage is finely cut and mostly toward the base of the plant. The flowers grow in thick spheres up to an inch across atop long, wiry stems. The flowers may be sky blue, white, pink, lilac, or lavender-mauve.

Pot Cultivation

Gilia love sun and need it at least half the day. The soil that they grow in should be moist and well drained.

Propagation

Seeds can be started inside at a 70-degree temperature, 6 to 8 weeks before setting outside. Don't cover them, because light assists in their germination. Seeds may also be sown outside where they are to grow and bloom when the soil is warm.

G. rubra

VARIETIES

• G. rubra;
• G. rubra coronopifolia