Contents
Description
Phacelia Bipinnatifida, also known as fernleaf phacelia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the borage family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including deserts, forests, and grasslands. The plant can grow up to 60cm tall and blooms in the summer, producing small purple or blue flowers. It is known for its fern-like leaves and is often grown for its ornamental value.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
Appearance
Phacelia Bipinnatifida has fern-like leaves that are deeply divided into linear segments. The leaves are up to 15cm long and have a light green color. The plant produces small purple or blue flowers that are about 1cm in diameter. The flowers are arranged in clusters on the top of the stems and bloom in the summer. The plant can grow up to 60cm tall and is often grown for its ornamental value.
Care Guide
Phacelia Bipinnatifida is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to make sure the soil does not dry out completely. The plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Bipinnatifida is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. This can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Phacelia Bipinnatifida is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including deserts, forests, and grasslands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. The plant is often grown for its ornamental value and can be found in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q1: Can Phacelia Bipinnatifida be grown in containers?
A1: Yes, Phacelia Bipinnatifida can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Make sure the soil is well-drained and the container has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating.
Q2: How often should Phacelia Bipinnatifida be watered?
A2: Phacelia Bipinnatifida is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to make sure the soil does not dry out completely. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q3: Does Phacelia Bipinnatifida attract bees and other pollinators?
A3: Yes, Phacelia Bipinnatifida is known to attract bees and other pollinators with its small purple or blue flowers.
Q4: Is Phacelia Bipinnatifida a good plant for erosion control?
A4: Yes, Phacelia Bipinnatifida is often used for erosion control due to its fibrous root system and ability to tolerate drought.
Related Plants
- Phacelia Campanularia
- Phacelia Crenulata
- Phacelia Davidowii
- Phacelia Distans
References
- “Phacelia Bipinnatifida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277160&isprofile=0&basic=phacelia%20bipinnatifida.
- “Phacelia Bipinnatifida.” PlantFiles. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/59533/.
- “Phacelia Bipinnatifida.” North Carolina State University. Accessed August 23, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/phacelia-bipinnatifida/.
