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Phacelia Popei

Phacelia Popei

Description

Phacelia Popei, commonly known as Pope’s Phacelia, is a native plant of the Mojave Desert in California. It is an annual herb that can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. This plant has hairy stems and leaves, and its flowers are purple or lavender. It blooms from April to June and attracts bees and hummingbirds. Phacelia Popei is easy to grow and can be a great addition to any garden.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Tracheophyta
Class Magnoliopsida
Order Boraginales
Family Boraginaceae
Genus Phacelia

Appearance

Phacelia Popei has hairy stems and leaves that can be green or grayish-green in color. Its flowers are small, tubular, and purple or lavender in color. The flowers are arranged in a spiral-shaped inflorescence that can be up to 10 inches long. The plant can grow up to 1-2 feet tall and 1-2 feet wide. Overall, it has a bushy and compact appearance.

Care Guide

Water

Phacelia Popei prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. It can tolerate drought conditions, but it is important not to let the soil become too dry.

Fertilization

Phacelia Popei does not require additional fertilization if grown in nutrient-rich soil. However, if the soil is poor, adding a balanced fertilizer can help promote growth.

Soil

Phacelia Popei prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in sandy or loamy soil types.

Sunlight

Phacelia Popei prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its growth and flowering.

Hardiness Zones

Phacelia Popei can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Phacelia Popei is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene and provide adequate air circulation.

Habitat

Phacelia Popei is native to the Mojave Desert in California. It grows in sandy and rocky soils, often in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. It can also be found in chaparral and sagebrush habitats.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Phacelia Popei grow in containers?

A: Yes, Phacelia Popei can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its roots.

Q: Is Phacelia Popei deer-resistant?

A: Yes, Phacelia Popei is deer-resistant.

Q: Can Phacelia Popei be propagated from seeds?

A: Yes, Phacelia Popei can be propagated from seeds sown in the spring or fall.

Q: How often should I prune Phacelia Popei?

A: Phacelia Popei does not require pruning. However, deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms.

Related Plants

  • Phacelia Campanularia
  • Phacelia Crenulata
  • Phacelia Distans
  • Phacelia Fremontii

References

  • “Phacelia popei.” Calflora. Accessed July 29, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1484.
  • “Phacelia popei.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed July 29, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PHPM.
  • “Pope’s Phacelia.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed July 29, 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/652–phacelia-popei.

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