Scorpion Weed

Scorpion weed,

also known as caterpillar weed and notch-leafed phacelia, grows to a height of about 18 inches and has bristly stems and hairy, green leaves that grow to five inches long.

The name scorpion weed refers to the curling flowerheads which somewhat resembles the flexed tail of a scorpion in striking position (I don't have a picture of it doing it).

It grows along roadsides and in desert flats and washes. It has violet, bell shaped flowers with five rounded petals.

It blooms between February and May.

It can create a rash similar to that of poison oak which can be treated with calamine lotion and benedryl.