Gilia Bird’s Eye

Gilia tricolour, also known as bird’s eyes or tricolour gilia, is a delicate and delightful annual native to California but well-suited to New Zealand gardens. It produces masses of small, trumpet-shaped flowers in a mix pale blue, white and yellow, often with a striking purple centre. These colourful blooms appear in airy clusters above fine, fern-like foliage, creating a soft, meadow-like effect.

Gilia tricolour is ideal for wildflower gardens, naturalistic plantings and cottage-style borders, where its informal habit blends beautifully with other annuals. It is also well-suited to containers, particularly when combined with other spring and summer bloomers. Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a great choice for wildlife-friendly gardens.

Plants grow to a height of 50–70 cm and begin flowering 8–10 weeks after sowing. Once established, Gilia is relatively drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Deadheading will prolong the flowering season.