Photo by George Wall

Wildflowers are in full bloom all over the countryside and more so this year than in the past because of the recent rains. I took this photo on February 4, 2005 near the old Gillespie Dam on the Arlington Valley birding trip.

The Scorpionweed is also known as Common phacelia, caterpillar weed and scalloped phacelia. The name Scorpionweed refers to the curling flowerhead that resembles a scorpion’s erect tail. This plant is from the Waterleaf Family and there are 38 species of Phacelia in Arizona. The weed normally is around 18” high, but can grow to 3 feet. This particular plant was almost that tall. The flowers are violet-purple, bell-shaped, with 5 rounded, united petals about ¼” wide in finely haired terminal coils. The stalk is branched, dark green and covered with hairs. The leaves are elliptical. Caution – the gland-tipped hairs can cause a severe rash to some people. The flowers bloom from February-May below 4,000 feet. It’s an annual that grows on roadsides, sandy washes, desert flats and small hills.

When you are out and about, take the time to look at the beautiful panorama of flowers that are currently blooming. It’s a treat for the eyes.