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Description
Phacelia Strictiflora, also known as the desert bluebells, is a flowering plant that belongs to the borage family. It is native to North America and can be found across the western United States and northern Mexico. The plant is an annual herb that grows up to 1.5 feet tall and 1 foot wide. It has bluish-purple flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, and its fruits are small, black, and shiny.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
Appearance
Phacelia Strictiflora has a unique appearance compared to other flowering plants. Its leaves are lance-shaped, hairy, and can grow up to 4 inches long. The stem of the plant is also hairy, and its bluish-purple flowers grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The flowers have five petals and a yellow center, and they can grow up to half an inch wide. The plant’s fruits are small, black, and shiny, and they contain several small seeds.
Care Guide
Phacelia Strictiflora is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can tolerate some shade. The plant needs regular watering, especially during the hot summer months, but it is important not to overwater it. Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, but adding a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season can help it thrive. Phacelia Strictiflora is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Strictiflora is generally a healthy plant and is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered, and it may attract aphids or spider mites. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Phacelia Strictiflora is native to North America and can be found across the western United States and northern Mexico. It grows in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and open woodlands. The plant is an important food source for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Strictiflora a perennial or an annual plant?A: Phacelia Strictiflora is an annual plant.Q: What is the best time to plant Phacelia Strictiflora?A: The best time to plant Phacelia Strictiflora is in the spring after the last frost.Q: How often should I water my Phacelia Strictiflora plant?A: Phacelia Strictiflora needs regular watering, especially during the hot summer months, but it is important not to overwater it.Q: Can Phacelia Strictiflora be grown in containers?A: Yes, Phacelia Strictiflora can be grown in containers as long as it has enough space to grow and receives enough sunlight.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Phacelia genus include:
- Phacelia crenulata
- Phacelia campanularia
- Phacelia tanacetifolia
- Phacelia bolanderi
References
- Bonnie, J. (2019). The Homegrown Honey Bees: A Beginner’s Guide to Beekeeping. Storey Publishing.
- Coleman, E. (2018). The Beginner’s Guide to Growing Heirloom Vegetables. Timber Press.
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Phacelia Strictiflora (Desert Bluebells). Retrieved May 14, 2021, from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/phacelia-strictiflora-desert-bluebells
