Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Boraginaceae. It is commonly known as Keck's phacelia and is endemic to the southwestern United States.
Origin
Phacelia keckii is native to the Mojave Desert, found in the southeastern Kern County, northeastern Los Angeles County, and northern San Bernardino County in California. It is a rare plant and is considered a sensitive species by the Bureau of Land Management.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Keck's Phacelia, named after Paul A. Keck who discovered the species in 1950. Other common names include Scorpionweed and Wild Heliotrope.
Uses
Phacelia keckii is an attractive plant that is often used in native plant gardens as it can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. The flowers provide a good source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant has no known medicinal uses.
General Appearance
Phacelia keckii is a perennial plant that grows up to 12 inches tall. It has basal leaves that are hairy and deeply lobed. The plant produces blue to purple flowers that are tubular and grow up to 1 inch in length.
Light Requirements
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston typically grows in areas that receive full sun to partial shade. This plant requires plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but prolonged periods of shade can stunt its growth and affect its productivity.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a Mediterranean climate characterized by mild winters and hot summers. It can tolerate temperatures that range from -10 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (-23 to 49 degrees Celsius). However, it thrives in areas with average temperatures that range from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 27 degrees Celsius). This plant cannot survive in areas with extreme temperatures, and frost can cause significant damage.
Soil Requirements
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant does not do well in heavy clay or sandy soils because these soils do not retain water and nutrients well. It requires moderate moisture levels, and the soil should not be too wet or too dry. Additionally, it requires good soil structure, and this can be achieved by incorporating organic matter into the soil.
Cultivation methods for Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston plant can be propagated by seed and is relatively easy to grow. It grows best in full sun to partial shade with well-draining soil. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in pots and transplanted.
Watering needs for Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston plant requires moderate watering. It prefers moist but not waterlogged soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Be careful not to overwater, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization for Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston plant requires minimal fertilization. Use a light application of balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning for Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston plant does not require regular pruning. However, removing spent flowers can encourage new growth and prolong the flowering period. Deadheading can be done by using scissors or pruning shears to cut the stem just above the spent flower. Trim any leggy stems to maintain a bushy appearance.
Propagation of Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston, also known as Keck's Phacelia, is a plant species native to California. It is a member of the borage family and is a popular choice for landscaping due to its showy flowers and ability to attract pollinators. Propagation of Phacelia keckii can be achieved through several methods, including seed propagation and division.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Phacelia keckii is through seed propagation. The plant produces small, black, wrinkled seeds that can be harvested and sown directly into the ground or started indoors. Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination, which typically occurs within two to three weeks. Once germinated, Phacelia keckii should be watered regularly to ensure healthy growth.
It is essential to note that Phacelia keckii is sensitive to transplant shock, so it is best to start the seeds in biodegradable containers or peat pots to minimize root disturbance. Sowing the seeds directly into the ground is also a viable option for establishing new plants.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Phacelia keckii, although it is less common than seed propagation. This method involves separating the plant clumps into smaller sections and replanting them. To propagate Phacelia keckii through division, dig up the clump during the plant's dormant period and use a sharp tool to divide the root ball into smaller sections. Replant each section at the same depth as the original plant, and water thoroughly.
Division is suitable for established Phacelia keckii plants that have grown to a substantial size and become overcrowded. The process of division not only creates new plants but also helps rejuvenate the original plant, leading to healthier growth and more abundant blooms.
Disease Management for Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston is generally a healthy and hardy plant. However, it can be susceptible to some types of diseases that can affect its overall health and vigor. Here are some common diseases that might affect the Phacelia keckii:
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is a common problem for Phacelia keckii, especially in humid conditions. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and can lead to deformation and leaf drop. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts and provide good airflow to prevent humidity build-up.
- Rust: Rust is also a fungal disease that can affect Phacelia keckii. It appears as small reddish or brownish spots on the leaves, which can lead to leaf drop. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected plant parts and provide good airflow.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can affect Phacelia keckii's leaves and stems. It appears as brownish spots with yellow borders on the leaves, and can cause dieback of the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts and provide good drainage to prevent standing water.
Pest Management for Phacelia keckii Munz & Johnston
Phacelia keckii is generally not affected by many pests. However, some pests may still attack and cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect the Phacelia keckii:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can feed on the sap of Phacelia keckii's leaves and stems. They can cause deformation and stunted growth of the plant. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of some types of moths and butterflies. They can feed on the leaves of Phacelia keckii and cause large holes or complete defoliation of the plant. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, nearly invisible insects that can suck the sap of Phacelia keckii's leaves and cause yellowing and wilting of the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use miticide.
