Phacelia Platycarpa
Contents
Description
Phacelia Platycarpa, also known as broadfruit phacelia, is an annual plant that is native to North America. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is commonly found in the southwestern United States. This plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot. The leaves are alternate and deeply lobed, with a rough texture. The flowers are small and tubular, and are typically a light blue or lavender color. The fruit is a nut that is round and covered in small bumps.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
| Species | Platycarpa |
Appearance
Phacelia Platycarpa is a beautiful plant that adds a pop of color to any garden. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a rough texture. The flowers are small and tubular, and are typically a light blue or lavender color. The fruit is a nut that is round and covered in small bumps. This plant grows up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of about 1 foot.
Care Guide
Phacelia Platycarpa is an easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly. Fertilization is not necessary, but can be beneficial for growth. This plant prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Platycarpa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure proper drainage.
Habitat
Phacelia Platycarpa is native to North America and is commonly found in the southwestern United States. It prefers dry, rocky soil and can often be found growing in desert regions. This plant is also commonly used in wildflower seed mixes and can be found in meadows and other open areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Platycarpa a perennial or annual plant?
A: Phacelia Platycarpa is an annual plant.
Q: What is the ideal growing environment for Phacelia Platycarpa?
A: Phacelia Platycarpa prefers well-draining soil, full sun, and is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: Can Phacelia Platycarpa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Phacelia Platycarpa can be grown in a container as long as it has proper drainage.
Q: Does Phacelia Platycarpa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Phacelia Platycarpa is known to attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Phacelia Campanularia
- Phacelia Tanacetifolia
- Phacelia Crenulata
- Phacelia Distans
References
- “Phacelia Platycarpa – Broadfruit Phacelia.” High Country Gardens, 2021, www.highcountrygardens.com/wildflower-seeds/phacelia-seeds/phacelia-platycarpa.
- “Phacelia Platycarpa.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 2021, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=phpa4.
- “Phacelia Platycarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b520.
