Contents
Description
Phacelia Neglecta, also known as the Desert Bluebells or Wild Heliotrope, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the borage family. It is native to the western United States and can grow up to 1-2 feet tall. This plant is known for its fern-like foliage and purple-blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are shaped like small bells and have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
Appearance
Phacelia Neglecta has a fern-like foliage that is green-gray in color and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and have a bell-shaped structure with five petals that are fused at the base. They are purple-blue in color, about 1 inch long, and have a sweet fragrance. The plant can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1 foot wide.
Care Guide
Phacelia Neglecta is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:- Water: This plant needs moderate watering. Water it once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5.- Sunlight: Phacelia Neglecta prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Neglecta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overwatering. If necessary, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests.
Habitat
Phacelia Neglecta is native to the western United States and can be found in deserts, grasslands, and open woodlands. It prefers dry and sandy soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Phacelia Neglecta grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in containers as long as they are well-draining and have enough space for the root system to grow.Q: How often should I fertilize Phacelia Neglecta?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Q: Is Phacelia Neglecta deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.Q: How long does Phacelia Neglecta bloom?
A: The plant blooms from late spring to early summer.
Related Plants
– Phacelia Campanularia- Phacelia Crenulata- Phacelia Distans- Phacelia Grandiflora- Phacelia Tanacetifolia
References
– “Phacelia Neglecta” by Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center- “Phacelia Neglecta” by Missouri Botanical Garden- “Desert Bluebells” by California Native Plant Society
