Contents
Description
Phacelia Dubia is a species of flowering plant in the borage family, Boraginaceae. It is native to North America, particularly in the western United States, and is commonly found in grasslands, sagebrush, and juniper woodlands. The plant is an annual herb that grows up to 30 cm tall and has blue-purple flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. It is known for its medicinal properties, especially in treating respiratory ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————-|—————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Boraginales|| Family| Boraginaceae|| Genus| Phacelia|| Species| Phacelia dubia |
Appearance
Phacelia Dubia has a slender stem that is hairy and glandular. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate to oblanceolate, and are also hairy. The flowers are arranged in a coiled inflorescence, and each flower has five petals that are fused at the base, forming a tube. The petals are blue-purple and are about 2 cm long. The fruit is a capsule that contains small seeds.
Care Guide
Phacelia Dubia is easy to grow and care for. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant requires full sun exposure and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Dubia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. The plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-aerated and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Phacelia Dubia is native to North America and can be found in many different habitats, including grasslands, sagebrush, juniper woodlands, and disturbed areas. The plant is often used for soil stabilization and erosion control.
Question and Answer
Q1: Can Phacelia Dubia be grown in containers?
A1: Yes, Phacelia Dubia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q2: How often should Phacelia Dubia be watered?
A2: Phacelia Dubia should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry to the touch.
Q3: Is Phacelia Dubia a good pollinator plant?
A3: Yes, Phacelia Dubia is a good pollinator plant and attracts a variety of bees and other beneficial insects.
Q4: Can Phacelia Dubia be used for medicinal purposes?
A4: Yes, Phacelia Dubia has been used for its medicinal properties, especially in treating respiratory ailments.
Related Plants
– Phacelia campanularia- Phacelia crenulata- Phacelia tanacetifolia- Phacelia bolanderi
References
– “Phacelia Dubia.” USDA Plants Database.- “Phacelia Dubia.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.- “Phacelia Dubia.” Montana Field Guide.- “Phacelia Dubia.” Washington Native Plant Society.- “Phacelia Dubia.” San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy.
