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Description
Hackelia Californica, also known as California stickseed, is a perennial plant that is native to California, Oregon, and Nevada. This plant belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is known for its delicate blue flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. Its scientific name is derived from the Greek word “hakelos,” which means “hooked,” referring to the plant’s hooked bristles that attach to clothing and animal fur.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Hackelia |
Appearance
Hackelia Californica grows up to 2-4 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. Its leaves are lance-shaped and hairy, with a toothed edge. The flowers are typically blue or purple, but can also be white or pink, and are arranged in clusters at the end of each stem. Each flower has five petals and a tubular shape. The plant’s hooked bristles, which attach to clothing and animal fur, can be painful to remove.
Care Guide
To care for Hackelia Californica, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, and sunlight, as well as planting it in the right type of soil and hardiness zone. Water: This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, before the plant begins to bloom.Soil: Plant Hackelia Californica in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.Hardiness Zones: Hackelia Californica is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hackelia Californica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, leaf miners, or powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep the plant well-watered and avoid overcrowding.
Habitat
Hackelia Californica is native to California, Oregon, and Nevada, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and along streams. It prefers moist, shady areas and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hackelia Californica a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Hackelia Californica is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can I grow Hackelia Californica in a container?
A: Yes, Hackelia Californica can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and the right type of soil and sunlight.
Q: Can I propagate Hackelia Californica from seed?
A: Yes, Hackelia Californica can be propagated from seed. Collect the seeds in the fall and plant them in the spring.
Q: Is Hackelia Californica toxic to pets?
A: There is no information to suggest that Hackelia Californica is toxic to pets. However, the plant’s hooked bristles can be painful if ingested.
Related Plants
- Hackelia micrantha
- Hackelia venusta
- Hackelia sharsmithii
References
- “Hackelia californica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed October 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HACA6.
- “Hackelia californica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed October 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c610.
- “Hackelia californica.” Plant of the Month. Accessed October 2021. https://plantofthemonth.wordpress.com/2014/06/01/hackelia-californica/.
