Pollinator 'Globe Gilia '

Globe Gilia (Gilia capitata)

Globe Gilia is a charming North American native wildflower, beloved for its ball-shaped clusters of tiny, sky-blue blooms. Each globe holds up to 100 delicate, bell-shaped flowers with soft, exserted anthers that give a feathery, thimble-like appearance. Sometimes called Blue Thimble Flower, Queen Anne’s Thimble, or Blue Gilia, this versatile plant thrives in full sun to part shade and tolerates a wide range of soil types—even poor or sandy ones.

Globe Gilia is drought-tolerant once established and is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and native pollinators. With its ferny foliage and airy habit, it brings softness and movement to wildflower meadows, borders, and naturalized areas. A wonderful option for xeriscaping, pollinator gardens, or tucked among other annuals in a sunny bed.

DETAILS:

QTY: 100

TYPE: Annual

SITE: Part Shade

DEPTH: 1/8"

GERMINATION: 17 - 21 days at 12 - 18°C

HEIGHT: 12-24”

MATURITY: 100-115 Days

SPACING: 6 - 12”

PINCH: No


HOW TO GROW:

Direct Sow (recommended): Globe gilia is best grown from seed sown directly into the garden. Sow seeds 2–3 weeks before your last expected frost, or in the autumn in mild climates. Plant seeds ⅛" deep and press them lightly into the soil. Once seedlings have developed their first true leaves, thin to a final spacing of 6–12" apart.

Transplant (alternative): Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last expected frost. Use deep pots to accommodate their taproots. Harden off seedlings gradually in a cold frame or sheltered outdoor spot before planting out after the danger of frost has passed.

Pinching: Pinching is not necessary for globe gilia, as the plant naturally forms a strong, upright growth habit.

Soil Preference and Watering: Globe gilia thrives in full sun and requires well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant once established and does not perform well in overly rich or waterlogged soil.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not required for globe gilia. It performs best in lean soils.