Phacelia Viscida

Description

Phacelia Viscida, commonly known as the sticky phacelia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the borage family. It is an annual herb that grows up to 30-60cm tall and can spread up to 30cm wide. This plant is native to California in the United States and is widely cultivated for its beautiful blue or purple flowers. It blooms from spring to early summer and has a mild fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators.

Taxonomic Information

The taxonomic classification of Phacelia Viscida is as follows:

Appearance

The sticky phacelia has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. Its leaves are green and hairy, with a slightly rough texture. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have five petals each. They are blue or purple in color and have a bell-shaped structure. The plant produces sticky hairs that cover the leaves, stems, and flowers, giving it a unique texture that feels rough to the touch. The flowers are followed by small, oval-shaped fruits that contain seeds for the next growing season.

Care Guide

Phacelia Viscida is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some essential care tips:

Water

The sticky phacelia prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot weather or if the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

Phacelia Viscida does not require much fertilization. However, you can add some compost or organic fertilizer to the soil before planting to provide extra nutrients.

Soil

The sticky phacelia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay. The pH of the soil should be neutral to slightly acidic (6.0-7.5).

Sunlight

Phacelia Viscida prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth.

Hardiness Zones

The sticky phacelia is hardy in USDA zones 5-10. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C and as high as 40°C.

Common Pests & Diseases

The sticky phacelia is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant is growing in well-draining soil and has adequate air circulation.

Habitat

Phacelia Viscida is native to California in the United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub. It prefers open areas with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.

Question and Answer

Here are some frequently asked questions about Phacelia Viscida:

Q: Is Phacelia Viscida an invasive species?

A: No, Phacelia Viscida is not considered an invasive species. It is a native plant that is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and as a cover crop.

Q: Can Phacelia Viscida be grown in a container?

A: Yes, Phacelia Viscida can be grown in a container as long as the pot is at least 20cm wide and has good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and place the container in a sunny location.

Q: How often should I prune Phacelia Viscida?

A: Phacelia Viscida does not require regular pruning. However, you can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms and remove any yellow or damaged leaves as needed.

Q: Can Phacelia Viscida be used as a cover crop?

A: Yes, Phacelia Viscida is an excellent cover crop that can improve soil health and attract beneficial insects to the garden. It is often used in organic farming systems to suppress weeds and provide nitrogen to the soil.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:

• Phacelia Campanularia
• Phacelia Tanacetifolia
• Phacelia Crenulata

References

Here are some references that were used to create this article:

• “Phacelia Viscida.” USDA Plants Database.
• “Growing Sticky Phacelia.” Gardening Know How.
• “Phacelia Viscida.” Las Pilitas Nursery.
• “Cover Crops: Sticky Phacelia.” University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.