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Description
Phacelia Vallis-Mortae, also known as Death Valley scorpionweed, is an annual flowering plant species that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the southwestern region of the United States, particularly in Death Valley National Park and Mojave Desert. This plant can grow up to 50 centimeters tall and has hairy stems with narrow leaves. Phacelia Vallis-Mortae produces beautiful violet-blue flowers that bloom from March to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Phacelia |
Appearance
Phacelia Vallis-Mortae is a stunning plant with violet-blue flowers that attract bees and butterflies. The flowers are funnel-shaped and have five petals. The leaves are narrow, long, and hairy. The stems are also hairy, with a reddish tint. The plant can grow up to 50 centimeters tall and 30 centimeters wide. Phacelia Vallis-Mortae blooms from March to June and prefers cool temperatures.
Care Guide
To care for Phacelia Vallis-Mortae, it is essential to provide the right conditions for its growth. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Phacelia Vallis-Mortae needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: This plant does not require much fertilizer. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: Phacelia Vallis-Mortae prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. It can also grow in sandy or rocky soils.- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun exposure to thrive. Make sure it gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Phacelia Vallis-Mortae grows well in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Phacelia Vallis-Mortae is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. Spider mites and aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with water or using insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Phacelia Vallis-Mortae is native to the southwestern region of the United States, particularly in Death Valley National Park and Mojave Desert. It can grow in sandy or rocky soils and prefers full sun exposure. This plant is an important part of the local ecosystem, providing nectar for bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Phacelia Vallis-Mortae poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: Can Phacelia Vallis-Mortae grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can grow in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its roots and provide good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Phacelia Vallis-Mortae?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: How long does Phacelia Vallis-Mortae bloom?
A: This plant blooms from March to June.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Phacelia Vallis-Mortae:- Phacelia Campanularia- Phacelia Crenulata- Phacelia Distans- Phacelia Grandiflora- Phacelia Insularis
References
– “Phacelia Vallis-Mortae.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=phva4- “Phacelia Vallis-Mortae.” California Native Plant Society. https://calscape.org/Phacelia-vallis-mortae-(Death-Valley-Phacelia)?srchcr=sc60b2c6f89b6fa- “Phacelia Vallis-Mortae.” Desert USA. https://www.desertusa.com/flora/phacelia-vallis-mortae.html
