I have worked outside the home for years and never had time for plants. I have retired now and trying to cure my black thumb. I have some California Bluebell seeds and would like to plant them. We live in California just about 7 miles from the Yuma Az. border so it's extremely hot in the summer with very mild winters. I would like to know if the seeds can be started indoors in a pot. Also if the must be moved outdoors or can the stay in the house. They are such a pretty color of blue.

I thank you for any help for this plant dummy!

Fanci! I live in Florida so I'm no help at all but I'm sure others will come to give you advice.

Hi Franci, and to ATP.
Here is a link to our database where you will find wonderful photos, and towards the bottom of the page some very helpful comments and threads on growing this beautiful plant.
California Bluebells (Phacelia campanularia)

And members that have grown this plant:
http://garden.org/lists/plant/...

Hope this was helpful.

@chelle
@bennysplace
@lovesblooms

Thanks for the call, Lynn.

I just recently answered what I think is the same question here http://garden.org/thread/view_... .

Yes, and it was answered thoroughly. Thank you for the link Chelle.

Fanci, may I also add to chelle's nice write-up that in southern spots like CA where you are, and FL where I am, you can prolong your blooming time and keep your plants going a little longer if you make use of the overhangs on your house, or the shade from trees. The south sides are the place to try this if you have a spot.

The lower angle of the sun in fall, winter and spring keeps the plants going strong, then as the sun gets higher, they are shaded in the middle of the day when the most brutal sun would fry them.

Let me also say, I doubt you'd be able to get these lovely flowers to bloom for you indoors unless you have a window that gets the sun pretty much all day. They really need lots of direct sunlight to bloom.

I grow these. They do well sown outside in place or if you want in a pot. I'm on the Central CA coast so our weather is a bit cooler and I grow mine in part shade. It doesn't seem to stop them from blooming and then you don't have to worry about them frying in the summer. They stay small and short so they are also good under other plants as a ground cover. They are a nice plant and if they like your yard I suggest you buy some seed in bulk and toss them everywhere . . . blue is always in style.