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Description
Phacelia californica, commonly known as California bluebell, is a species of flowering plant in the borage family, Boraginaceae. This annual plant is native to California and southwestern Oregon, but is also found in other parts of North America. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall and blooms from March to May with blue-purple flowers that are bell-shaped and up to an inch long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
Appearance
Phacelia californica has a bushy and branching habit with leaves that are palmately lobed and can be up to 6 inches long. The blue-purple flowers are clustered on one side of the stem and are bell-shaped with five petals that are fused at the base. The flowers are about 1 inch long and are surrounded by hairy sepals. The plant produces small, rounded fruits that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Phacelia californica is an easy-to-grow plant that requires little maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant, but performs best with regular watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but can help promote growth and blooming. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia californica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot in poorly-drained soil. It is important to avoid over-watering and to provide good drainage to prevent this issue.
Habitat
Phacelia californica is native to California and southwestern Oregon, but can also be found in other parts of North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and woodlands. It is often found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia californica a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Phacelia californica is an annual plant.
Q: What is the blooming period for Phacelia californica?
A: Phacelia californica blooms from March to May.
Q: Does Phacelia californica require fertilization?
A: Fertilization is not necessary for Phacelia californica, but can help promote growth and blooming.
Q: What hardiness zones is Phacelia californica suitable for?
A: Phacelia californica is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
- Phacelia campanularia
- Phacelia distans
- Phacelia ciliata
- Phacelia bolanderi
References
- “Phacelia californica.” Calflora.
- “Phacelia californica.” San Diego Zoo.
- “Phacelia californica.” Las Pilitas Nursery.
- “Phacelia californica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
