Contents
Description
Aliciella Pinnatifida, commonly known as the fern-leaved gilia, is a wildflower native to western North America. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 20 inches tall and 12 inches wide, with a basal rosette of dissected leaves and delicate flowers on slender stems. The flowers are pink or lavender and bloom from May to August. The plant is important for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Polemoniales |
| Family | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus | Aliciella |
Appearance
Aliciella Pinnatifida has fern-like leaves that are deeply dissected into narrow segments, giving the plant a delicate appearance. The leaves are gray-green to blue-green and up to 4 inches long. The flowers are pink or lavender and have five petals fused at the base into a tube. The tube opens into a star shape at the top, revealing the stamens and pistil. The flowers grow on slender stems up to 20 inches tall and are arranged in loose clusters.
Care Guide
Aliciella Pinnatifida is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing this plant:- Water: Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilizer, but you may apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote growth.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent wilting.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aliciella Pinnatifida is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and rust, in humid conditions. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation. The plant may also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Aliciella Pinnatifida is native to western North America and can be found in dry meadows, rocky slopes, and open woods. The plant prefers well-draining soil and is adapted to drought conditions. It is an important plant for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aliciella Pinnatifida a good plant for a xeriscape garden?
A: Yes, Aliciella Pinnatifida is a drought-tolerant plant that is well-suited for xeriscape gardens.
Q: Can Aliciella Pinnatifida tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Aliciella Pinnatifida prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: Does Aliciella Pinnatifida attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Aliciella Pinnatifida is an important plant for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water Aliciella Pinnatifida?
A: Water the plant deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal diseases.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Aliciella Pinnatifida:- Gilia Capitata- Gilia Tricolor- Gilia Brecciarum- Ipomopsis Aggregata- Polemonium Caeruleum
References
– Jepson Herbarium. (n.d.). Aliciella pinnatifida. Retrieved from https://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php?tid=13450- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Aliciella pinnatifida. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ALPI8
