Contents
Description
Phacelia Crenulata Var. Ambigua, commonly known as the cleft phacelia or cleftleaf wildheliotrope, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the genus Phacelia in the family Boraginaceae. This perennial herb is native to the western parts of North America and is known for its beautiful purple-blue flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
Appearance
The cleft phacelia grows up to 1-2 feet tall and features deeply cleft, hairy leaves that are grey-green in color. The flowers of this plant are trumpet-shaped and grow in clusters at the end of branching stems. The flowers are usually purple-blue in color with white centers and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant produces small, brown, nut-like fruits that are about 1/8 inch in size.
Care Guide
The cleft phacelia is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring and summer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The cleft phacelia is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The cleft phacelia is generally considered to be a low-maintenance plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, spider mites, and aphids. To prevent these problems, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If necessary, treat with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
The cleft phacelia is native to the western parts of North America, including California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. It typically grows in dry, rocky soils at elevations up to 10,000 feet. This plant is often found in open areas, including chaparral, woodland, and grassland habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the cleft phacelia a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the cleft phacelia is an excellent plant for attracting pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can the cleft phacelia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the cleft phacelia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does the cleft phacelia require pruning?
A: No, the cleft phacelia does not require pruning, but you can deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Q: How long does it take for the cleft phacelia to bloom?
A: The cleft phacelia typically blooms from late spring to early summer, about 60-90 days after planting.
Related Plants
- Phacelia crenulata
- Phacelia distans
- Phacelia grandiflora
- Phacelia hastata
- Phacelia integrifolia
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Phacelia crenulata Torr. var. ambigua J.F. Macbr. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PHCR4
- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Phacelia crenulata var. ambigua. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/656–phacelia-crenulata-var-ambigua
- Keator, G. (2010). Plants of the East Bay Parks. University of California Press.
