Contents
Description
Phacelia Nemoralis is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Boraginaceae. It is a native to North America, specifically to the western United States and Mexico. The plant has a delicate beauty and is commonly used in gardens as a border plant or as a groundcover. It is also grown as a cover crop, as it is known to improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
Appearance
Phacelia Nemoralis is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of 6-12 inches. It has fuzzy, gray-green leaves that are lance-shaped and arranged in a rosette. The plant produces a profusion of small, bell-shaped flowers that are a beautiful shade of lavender-blue. The flowers are borne on long, slender stems that rise above the foliage. The blooms are very attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Phacelia Nemoralis is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.- Fertilization: Phacelia Nemoralis does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay.- Sunlight: Phacelia Nemoralis thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the flowers may not be as prolific.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Nemoralis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, there are a few issues to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can be a problem in hot, dry weather. Keep the plant well-watered and spray with insecticidal soap to control infestations.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be a problem in humid conditions. Avoid overhead watering and apply fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Phacelia Nemoralis is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, from open woodlands to meadows and prairies. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of conditions, from dry to moist.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Nemoralis a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces attractive flowers that are very attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Phacelia Nemoralis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the roots.
Q: Does Phacelia Nemoralis have any medicinal properties?
A: There is some evidence that the plant has anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties, but more research is needed.
Q: How often should Phacelia Nemoralis be fertilized?
A: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
Related Plants
– Phacelia Campanularia- Phacelia Covillei- Phacelia Distans- Phacelia Fremontii- Phacelia Hastata
References
– USDA Plants Database: https://plants.usda.gov/home- The Garden Helper: https://www.thegardenhelper.com/phacelia-nemoralis.html- Missouri Botanical Garden: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=275724&isprofile=1&basic=phacelia- Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PHNE
