Contents
Description
Phacelia Pachyphylla, also known as the thick-leaved phacelia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Boraginaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in desert and mountain habitats. The plant produces showy, lavender-blue flowers in the spring and early summer, which attract bees and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
| Species | Phacelia Pachyphylla |
Appearance
Phacelia Pachyphylla is a low-growing, herbaceous plant that typically reaches 6-12 inches in height and spreads to form a small clump. The leaves are thick and fleshy, with a bluish-green color and a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are funnel-shaped and measure about 1 inch across, with five lobes and a prominent stamen. They are arranged in clusters at the tips of the stems and appear in shades of lavender-blue.
Care Guide
Phacelia Pachyphylla is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as its basic needs are met. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy and thriving:- Water: Phacelia Pachyphylla prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate soggy conditions. Water it deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth and blooming.- Soil: Phacelia Pachyphylla prefers sandy or gravelly soil with good drainage. Amend heavy clay soil with sand or perlite to improve drainage.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade to protect it from intense sunlight.- Hardiness Zones: Phacelia Pachyphylla is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Pachyphylla is generally not prone to serious pest or disease problems. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. In addition, it may be attacked by aphids or spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Phacelia Pachyphylla is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in desert and mountain habitats. It prefers well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil and can tolerate hot, dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Phacelia Pachyphylla tolerate frost?
A: No, this plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I water Phacelia Pachyphylla?
A: Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Q: Does Phacelia Pachyphylla attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces showy, lavender-blue flowers that attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: How can I propagate Phacelia Pachyphylla?
A: This plant can be propagated by seed or by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
– Phacelia Campanularia- Phacelia Crenulata- Phacelia Distans- Phacelia Fremontii- Phacelia Minor
References
– “Phacelia Pachyphylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h660.- “Phacelia Pachyphylla.” Plant of the Week, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/phacelia_pachyphylla.shtml.- “Phacelia Pachyphylla.” United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=phpa14.
