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Description
Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida is a flowering plant, commonly known as fernleaf phacelia. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is native to North America. The plant has a height of 1-3 feet and spreads to 1-2 feet. It usually blooms from April to July and has a beautiful lavender-blue flower. This plant is popular among gardeners and is often used for soil stabilization and erosion control.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
| Species | Cicutaria |
| Variety | Hispida |
Appearance
Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida has fern-like leaves that are deeply divided and have a bright green color. The plant produces a tall, slender stem with a cluster of lavender-blue flowers at the top. The flowers have a tubular shape and are about 0.5 inches long. They are grouped in a coiled inflorescence, which unfurls as the flowers mature. The plant has a bushy growth habit, and its foliage can reach a width of up to 2 feet.
Care Guide
Water: Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida requires moderate watering. It should be watered regularly during the growing season, but the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.Fertilization: The plant doesn’t require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is enough to sustain its growth.Soil: The plant grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH.Sunlight: Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be attacked by spider mites, aphids, or whiteflies. These can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also develop leaf spot or powdery mildew, which can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida is native to North America and is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, hillsides, and open woods. It is commonly used for soil stabilization and erosion control in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida an annual or perennial plant?A: Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida is an annual plant.Q: Can Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida be grown in containers?A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full height and spread.Q: Does Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida attract pollinators?A: Yes, the plant is a good source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.Q: Can Phacelia Cicutaria Var. Hispida be used for cut flowers?A: Yes, the plant’s flowers can be cut and used in floral arrangements.
Related Plants
- Phacelia Campanularia
- Phacelia Tanacetifolia
- Phacelia Bolanderi
- Phacelia Distans
References
- USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home
- Gardening Know How: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/phacelia/growing-phacelia-plants.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279859&isprofile=0&basic=fernleaf%20phacelia
