Origin
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis is a native North American plant that is commonly found in the western regions of the United States and Canada, including California, Montana, Nevada, and Utah.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Kellogg's scorpionweed, Kellogg's phacelia, and low phacelia.
Uses
The plant is used for ecological restoration and as a native plant in dryland gardens. It is also used as a soil stabilizer because of its strong root system that helps prevent soil erosion. The flowers of the plant are a great source of nectar for bees and other pollinators, making it an important plant for maintaining pollinator populations.
General Appearance
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of about 10-20 cm. The plant has a branching stem that is covered in fine hairs and is usually green in color. The leaves are small and alternate, with toothed margins, and are covered in soft hairs. The flowers of the plant are bell-shaped and can be either blue or purple, with a white or yellow center. The flowers are arranged in a long, skinny, coiled cluster.
Growth Conditions for Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis is a native California plant that thrives in a Mediterranean climate. It's commonly known as Dwarf Phacelia and grows as a highly branched annual herb. Understanding the typical growth conditions that Phacelia humilis thrives in is crucial to ensure its successful growth.
Light Requirements
Phacelia humilis is best grown in full sunlight. The plant requires several hours of direct sunlight daily to carry out photosynthesis effectively. As such, it's best to plant it in an open area that receives sufficient exposure to sunlight. If grown in a shaded area, the plant's growth and development will be significantly stunted.
Temperature Conditions
Phacelia humilis grows well in warm temperatures, particularly during the summer season. The plant can tolerate moderately high temperatures up to 100°F (38°C) but performs best in temperatures ranging from 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C). During colder temperatures, Phacelia humilis undergoes dormancy and may experience frost damage.
Soil Requirements
Phacelia humilis grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant requires soil that's slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate sandy or clay soils as long as the soil is not compacted or waterlogged. Additionally, adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil enhances soil fertility, which supports Phacelia humilis's growth and development.
Cultivation
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis prefers well-drained soil with good fertility. The plant grows well in full sun and can tolerate partial shade as well. It is important to sow the seeds in a location sheltered from wind and heavy rain. The best time to plant is in early spring or late fall.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis vary depending on the soil type and weather conditions. In general, it requires moderate watering, and the soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it is important to avoid saturating the soil.
Fertilization
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis does not typically require fertilization if grown in fertile soil. However, if the soil is poor, a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied during the growing season. It is important not to over-fertilize, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis generally does not require pruning. However, deadheading the spent flowers can promote a longer blooming period. If the plant becomes too leggy or crowded, it may benefit from a light pruning after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.
Propagation of Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis can be easily propagated using seeds or cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds:
Propagation via seeds is the most commonly used method for Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis. Seeds can be collected from the plant in the fall season, dried and stored for the next growing season. Sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mix in a pot, and keep them moist until germination. Once they start growing, transfer seedlings to larger pots and provide them with adequate water and nutrients. Seed propagation should be done in early spring for best results.
Propagation through Cuttings:
Propagation through cuttings is another popular method for Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis. Take cuttings from the plant in spring when new growth appears. Cut 6-inch-long stems from the healthy, disease-free parts of the plant and remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem. Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone and plant it into moist potting mix. Keep the mix moist and provide the cutting with bright, indirect sunlight. After roots have formed, usually within a couple of weeks, transplant the rooted cuttings to their final growing spot outdoors.
Disease Management
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and development. These diseases are mainly caused by fungi and bacteria. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that is characterized by circular lesions with dark centers and light borders on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant parts and destroy them. Fungicides can also be used to control anthracnose. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results.
Mildew
Mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage mildew, prune the affected parts of the plant and discard them. Fungicides can also be used to control mildew.
Pest Management
Phacelia humilis Torr. & Gray var. humilis is also vulnerable to pest attacks that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids.
Cutworms
Cutworms are caterpillar-like insects that feed on the stems of the plant, causing it to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, place a collar made of cardboard or plastic around the base of the plant to prevent the insects from burrowing into the soil. You can also use biological control methods such as introducing natural predators like parasitic wasps.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves and webs on the plant. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the spider mites.
