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Description
Phacelia Lyonii is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to the western regions of North America. It belongs to the borage family and is commonly known as Lyon’s phacelia. This annual plant is often used for erosion control and soil stabilization, making it a popular choice for landscaping projects. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and produces clusters of small, delicate, and trumpet-shaped flowers that are usually light blue to purple in color. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer, attracting many bees and butterflies to its nectar-rich flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
| Species | Lyonii |
Appearance
Phacelia Lyonii has a unique appearance with its elongated leaves that are hairy and gray-green in color. The leaves grow up to 5 inches long and 1 inch wide, and are arranged alternately on the stem. The plant produces clusters of small, delicate, and trumpet-shaped flowers that are usually light blue to purple in color. The flowers are about 1/2 inch long and grow in a spiral pattern around the stem. Phacelia Lyonii can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great choice for adding height and texture to a garden or landscaping project.
Care Guide
Phacelia Lyonii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate standing water. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Phacelia Lyonii does not require regular fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils.
- Sunlight: Phacelia Lyonii prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as heavily.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Lyonii is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by spider mites and aphids, especially during hot and dry weather. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if the soil is poorly drained, so make sure to plant it in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Phacelia Lyonii is native to the western regions of North America, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, grasslands, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Lyonii a perennial or annual plant?
A: Phacelia Lyonii is an annual plant.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for growing Phacelia Lyonii?
A: Phacelia Lyonii prefers a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Q: Can Phacelia Lyonii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Phacelia Lyonii can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How long does it take for Phacelia Lyonii to bloom?
A: Phacelia Lyonii usually blooms from late spring to early summer, about 60 to 90 days after planting.
Related Plants
- Phacelia Campanularia
- Phacelia Crenulata
- Phacelia Distans
- Phacelia Fremontii
References
- “Phacelia Lyonii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PHLY. Accessed 24 May 2021.
- “Phacelia Lyonii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282869&isprofile=1&basic=phacelia%20lyonii. Accessed 24 May 2021.
- “Phacelia Lyonii (Lyon’s Phacelia).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/phacelia-lyonii-lyons-phacelia. Accessed 24 May 2021.
