Sticky Blue Eyed Mary: A Pacific Northwest Native Worth Knowing
If you’re passionate about Pacific Northwest native plants and love discovering lesser-known wildflowers, let me introduce you to sticky blue eyed Mary (Collinsia rattanii glandulosa). This charming annual forb might not be the showiest plant in your garden, but it has a special place in the native plant world of Oregon and Washington.
What Makes Sticky Blue Eyed Mary Special?
Sticky blue eyed Mary is a true Pacific Northwest native, naturally occurring only in Oregon and Washington. As an annual forb, it completes its entire life cycle in one growing season, making it a delightful seasonal visitor rather than a permanent garden resident. The sticky part of its name comes from the glandular hairs that give the plant a slightly tacky feel – nature’s way of protecting it from unwanted visitors while still welcoming beneficial pollinators.
This native species grows naturally in Oregon and Washington, making it a wonderful choice for gardeners wanting to support local ecosystems and create authentic regional landscapes.
Garden Appeal and Landscape Role
While sticky blue eyed Mary won’t win any awards for being a garden showstopper, it brings subtle charm and ecological value to the right setting. As a low-growing annual, it works beautifully as:
- Groundcover in native plant gardens
- Filler in wildflower meadows
- Understory plantings in naturalized landscapes
- Part of restoration projects focusing on Pacific Northwest flora
This plant is perfect for gardeners who appreciate the quiet beauty of native wildflowers and want to create habitat that supports local wildlife.
Growing Sticky Blue Eyed Mary
As a Pacific Northwest native, sticky blue eyed Mary is adapted to the region’s climate patterns. Here’s what you need to know about growing it successfully:
Growing Conditions
- Light: Partial shade to full sun
- Soil: Well-draining soil; adaptable to various soil types
- Water: Moderate water needs, following natural rainfall patterns
- USDA Zones: Likely zones 8-10, matching its native range
Planting and Care Tips
- Direct sow seeds in fall or early spring
- Minimal maintenance required once established
- Allow plants to self-seed for natural populations
- Avoid over-fertilizing, as natives prefer lean soils
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
While specific pollinator data for this variety is limited, plants in the Collinsia genus typically attract small native bees, beneficial insects, and other pollinators during their blooming period. By including sticky blue eyed Mary in your garden, you’re providing food sources for local wildlife and supporting the native pollinator network.
Important Conservation Note
Sticky blue eyed Mary has a conservation status that suggests it may be less common than other native species. If you’re interested in growing this plant, please source seeds or plants from reputable native plant suppliers who collect responsibly. Never collect from wild populations, and consider this an opportunity to support conservation through thoughtful gardening.
Is Sticky Blue Eyed Mary Right for Your Garden?
This native annual is ideal for gardeners who:
- Live in Oregon or Washington
- Want to support native plant conservation
- Appreciate subtle, naturalistic garden beauty
- Are creating wildlife habitat or restoration projects
- Enjoy the seasonal rhythm of annual wildflowers
While sticky blue eyed Mary might not be the most dramatic addition to your garden, it offers something even more valuable: a connection to the unique botanical heritage of the Pacific Northwest. For gardeners committed to native plant conservation and authentic regional landscaping, this little annual deserves a spot in your native plant collection.
