Contents
Description
Phacelia Procera, also known as the giant phacelia or caterpillar phacelia, is a species of flowering plant in the borage family (Boraginaceae). It is a native of California, USA, and can be found growing in open, sunny areas such as grasslands, meadows, and foothills. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, producing clusters of lavender-blue flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
| Species | Procera |
Appearance
Phacelia Procera is a tall, bushy plant with hairy stems and leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped and can measure up to 8 inches long. The plant produces large clusters of lavender-blue flowers that are shaped like bells and have a sweet, honey-like fragrance. The flowers can grow up to 1 inch in length and are held on long, branching stalks. The plant blooms in the spring and summer and can attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Phacelia Procera is a relatively easy plant to grow, as long as it is provided with the right growing conditions.
Water: Phacelia Procera prefers to be grown in moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil stays evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: This plant does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can improve its growth and bloom.
Soil: Phacelia Procera prefers well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as profusely in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones: Phacelia Procera is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Procera is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is grown in poorly draining soil. Spider mites and aphids can also occasionally infest the plant, especially in dry conditions.
Habitat
Phacelia Procera is native to California and can be found growing in open, sunny areas such as grasslands, meadows, and foothills. It is often used in restoration projects to help improve soil quality and provide habitat for pollinators and other wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Procera an annual or perennial?
A: Phacelia Procera is an annual plant, meaning it completes its life cycle in one growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Phacelia Procera?
A: Phacelia Procera can be propagated from seed. Sow the seeds directly into the garden in the spring or fall, or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost date.
Q: Are there any special considerations for growing Phacelia Procera in containers?
A: Phacelia Procera can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size. Make sure the soil is well-draining and water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist.
Q: Can Phacelia Procera be grown in cold climates?
A: Phacelia Procera is not well-suited to cold climates and is generally only hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
- Phacelia Campanularia
- Phacelia Crenulata
- Phacelia Distans
- Phacelia Tanacetifolia
References
- “Phacelia Procera.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/629–phacelia-procera (accessed August 24, 2021).
- “Phacelia Procera.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=7365 (accessed August 24, 2021).
- “Phacelia Procera.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d827 (accessed August 24, 2021).
