Origin
Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora (J. Voss) Atwood, commonly referred to as the smallflower phacelia, is a herbaceous plant native to the western regions of North America, including California, Nevada, and Utah. It is typically found in semi-arid and arid areas, often growing in disturbed habitats and open landscapes.
Common Names
Aside from the smallflower phacelia, this plant is also known by several other common names, including mini phacelia, tiny-flowered phacelia, and dwarf phacelia.
Uses
While the smallflower phacelia is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes, it does have ecological benefits. Its fuzzy and sticky leaves can trap small insects, making it an attractive plant for some species of predatory insects. Additionally, it produces large amounts of nectar, making it a desirable food source for birds, bees, and butterflies.
General Appearance
The smallflower phacelia typically grows to a height of 10-30 cm, with a spread of approximately 20-50 cm. It has thin, somewhat winding stems and fuzzy, green leaves that are deeply divided into slender lobes. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer, producing clusters of small funnel-shaped flowers in shades of blue-purple or white. The flowers are typically less than 1 cm in size and have five petals, giving rise to the plant's alternative name, tiny-flowered phacelia.
Growth Conditions for Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora (J. Voss) Atwood
Light: Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora requires full sun which means exposure to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. The plant cannot tolerate shade and may exhibit stunted growth or poor flowering in shaded areas.
Temperature: The plant thrives well in areas with temperate climates and cooler temperatures. The optimum temperature range for Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora growth is 60-75°F. The plant is not tolerant to high temperatures and may dry out or wither when exposed to temperatures beyond 90°F.
Soil requirements: Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora grows optimally in well-drained soils that are loamy or sandy. The ideal pH range for the plant growth is 5.5-7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter to support the plant's growth. The plant requires adequate moisture, but it cannot survive in waterlogged soils.
Fertilizer: Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora does not require heavy fertilization, making it a low-maintenance plant. However, a light application of a balanced fertilizer during planting or after the first bloom can enhance plant growth.
Water: The plant requires adequate moisture, especially during the flowering and fruiting period. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Under irrigation, the plant requires moderate watering once or twice a week. During periods of low rainfall, supplemental watering is necessary to maintain the plant's growth.
Cultivation methods
Phacelia ambigua var. minutiflora is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of organic matter. The plant prefers full sun or partial shade and can be grown in both containers and garden beds.
When planting seedlings, ensure that the soil temperature is at least 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant the seedlings at a depth of 1/4 inch and space them at least six inches apart.
Watering needs
Phacelia ambigua var. minutiflora requires moderate watering, especially during the early stages when the plant is establishing its roots. The plant needs regular watering until it becomes fully established, after which it can tolerate drought for extended periods.
To prevent rotting and other water-related issues, avoid overwatering. Again, ensure the soil is well-drained, and allow it to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilization
The plant's preference for well-drained soils with plenty of organic matter already implies that it doesn't require fertilizer often. However, an occasional application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can enhance flowering.
Avoid applying nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as they encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers. Instead, use a fertilizer with a higher amount of phosphorus, which promotes flower formation.
Pruning
Phacelia ambigua var. minutiflora doesn't require much pruning, as it grows as a compact mound that doesn't get leggy. However, you can deadhead spent flowers to promote further blooming.
If the plant starts getting too wide, you can prune it back to promote a more compact form. Pruning is best done in the early spring, just before the plant starts actively growing.
Propagation of Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora (J. Voss) Atwood
Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora (J. Voss) Atwood, also known as small-flowered phacelia, can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
Propagation by seed
The seeds of Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora can be sown directly into the garden soil during the fall season. The seeds can also be started indoors in the early spring. The best temperature for seed germination is between 60-70°F (15.5-21°C), and the seeds will usually germinate within 1-3 weeks. Seedlings can be transplanted to the garden bed after the last frost date in spring.
Propagation by cuttings
Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the spring or summer season. Cuttings should be around 3-4 inches long and should be taken from healthy stems that are not flowering.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting soil mix. The soil should be kept moist until rooting occurs, which usually takes around 4-6 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to a garden bed or container.
Disease Management
Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora is generally not susceptible to many diseases, but some fungal diseases like powdery mildew, leaf spots, and stem cankers can affect the plant. These diseases usually flourish in damp and poorly ventilated conditions and can weaken or even kill the plant. To prevent these diseases from taking hold, ensure that the plant has adequate spacing for good air circulation.
If you notice any signs of infection, like white or gray dusty patches, yellowing or browning of leaves, or stem cankers, act fast and remove the affected area. Dispose of the diseased plant debris to avoid further spread of the fungi. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of these diseases, but they should be used as a last resort.
Pest Management
Phacelia ambigua M.E. Jones var. minutiflora is prone to attacks from pests like aphids, spider mites, and cutworms. These pests usually feed on the leaves and sap of the plant, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. Prompt action is necessary to prevent these pests from causing significant damage.
One of the most effective ways to manage these pests is through the use of insecticidal soaps. These soaps are safe and natural and can be used on sprouts or young plants that are more susceptible to pest damage. However, it's important to avoid using chemical insecticides as they can harm beneficial insects like bees.
Regularly monitor your plants for signs of pest infestation and act promptly if you notice any. Keep your garden clean, clear of debris, and weed-free. Additionally, encourage natural predators like ladybugs, lacewings, and birds that feed on these pests to help control their populations. Handpicking the pests off the plants can also be effective when the population is low.
