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Description
Phacelia Integrifolia, also known as the whole-leaved phacelia or the Sierra phacelia, is a species of flowering plant in the borage family. It is native to California and Nevada in the United States, where it grows in various habitats such as meadows, forests, and deserts. The plant can reach up to 60 centimeters in height and produces beautiful blue or lavender flowers that bloom from March to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
| Species | Integrifolia |
Appearance
Phacelia Integrifolia is a herbaceous perennial plant with hairy stems and leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped, toothed, and can grow up to 15 centimeters long. The flowers are arranged in a coiled inflorescence that can be up to 20 centimeters long. Each flower has a tubular corolla with five lobes and measures about 1-2 centimeters in length. The corolla is usually blue or lavender, but can occasionally be white or pink. The plant produces small, oval-shaped fruits that contain several seeds.
Care Guide
Phacelia Integrifolia is a relatively easy plant to care for, as it can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:- Water: Phacelia Integrifolia prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. It can tolerate some drought, but should not be allowed to dry out completely. – Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year. – Soil: Phacelia Integrifolia can grow in a variety of soil types, as long as they are well-drained and slightly acidic. – Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but can also grow in partial shade. – Hardiness Zones: Phacelia Integrifolia is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Integrifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. – Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves, as well as webbing on the plant. – Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. – Root rot: This disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. It can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt.
Habitat
Phacelia Integrifolia is native to California and Nevada in the United States, where it can be found in a variety of habitats such as meadows, forests, and deserts. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can also grow in partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Integrifolia a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Phacelia Integrifolia is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How long does the flowering season last for Phacelia Integrifolia?
A: The flowering season for Phacelia Integrifolia typically lasts from March to July.
Q: Can Phacelia Integrifolia grow in containers?
A: Yes, Phacelia Integrifolia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Is Phacelia Integrifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Phacelia Integrifolia is toxic to pets.
Related Plants
– Phacelia Campanularia- Phacelia Crenulata- Phacelia Cryptantha- Phacelia Distans- Phacelia Grandiflora
References
– “Phacelia Integrifolia.” Calflora. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=6208.- “Phacelia Integrifolia (Wholeleaf Phacelia).” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PHIN2.
