Phacelia lutea (Hook. & Arn.) J.T. Howell var. glandulifera (Torr. ex S. Wats.) Cronq.
Phacelia lutea, commonly known as Yellow Phacelia, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to western North America and can be found in various habitats such as open grasslands, meadows, and rocky slopes.
General Appearance
The plant has a hairy stem that reaches up to 50 cm in height. It produces lance-shaped leaves that are arranged alternately. The flowers, which bloom from March to August, are small and yellow with a diameter of about 1 cm. They are clustered at the tip of the stem and have five, fused petals that form a tube-like shape. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains small, oval seeds.
Uses
The plant has been utilized in various ways by indigenous tribes for its medicinal properties. The Navajo used Phacelia lutea to make a tea that was consumed to relieve sore throats. The Thompson tribe used it to treat tuberculosis. It is also a popular plant for pollinators, attracting bees, butterflies, and other insects that assist in the pollination of other surrounding plants. Additionally, this plant is often grown for ornamental purposes in gardens and meadows because of its attractive flowers and foliage.
Common Names
Yellow Phacelia, Buttercup Phacelia, Caterpillar Phacelia, and Balloonflower.
Growth Conditions for Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera
Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera is a highly adaptable plant that thrives in a wide range of growth conditions. Below are some of the typical growth conditions for this species:
Light
Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera is a sun-loving plant that requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. The plant will grow taller and produce more abundant flowers in full sun than in partial shade.
Temperature
Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows best in temperatures between 60 and 85 °F (15 and 29 °C), which is typical of most temperate regions. However, it can also tolerate temperatures as low as 20 °F (-6 °C) and as high as 100 °F (38 °C). The plant can survive freezing temperatures for a short period, but prolonged exposure to frost will kill it.
Soil Requirements
Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. The plant requires a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and it can grow in mildly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. However, it does not tolerate highly acidic or highly alkaline soils.
Cultivation methods for Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera
Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera is a flowering plant that is commonly used in gardens for ornamental purposes. It is easy to grow and can be cultivated by direct seeding or transplantation. When growing this plant, it is best to choose a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires a moderate amount of water to thrive.
Watering needs for Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera
This plant requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season. It should be watered deeply at least once a week to ensure healthy growth. If the soil is dry to the touch, it is time to water. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization for Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera
Fertilizing the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season can promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
Pruning for Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera
Deadheading the spent blooms can help promote more flowers to bloom. In addition, pruning back the foliage and stems after the first round of flowering can encourage a second round of blooms in the same season. When pruning, it is important to use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the plant and to cut back to just above a node or leaf junction.
Propagation of Phacelia Lutea var. glandulifera
Phacelia Lutea var. glandulifera can be propagated through both seeds and vegetative cuttings. However, propagating through seeds is the most common method.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Phacelia Lutea var. glandulifera can be sown directly in the soil during the fall or spring seasons. The seeds need to be sown at a depth of ¼ inch and spaced at least 4 inches apart. Water the soil immediately after sowing the seeds, and continue to water it regularly until germination. The germination time for these seeds is around 1-2 weeks.
One important thing to remember while propagating through seeds is to collect the seeds from a healthy plant that is free from any diseases. This will ensure the germination success rate is high.
Vegetative Propagation
Phacelia Lutea var. glandulifera can also be propagated through vegetative cuttings. However, this method is not commonly used. To propagate through cuttings, take a stem cutting approximately 4-5 inches in length from a healthy plant. Remove all the leaves except for the top 2. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with potting soil. Keep the pot in a shady area and water regularly until new growth appears.
Propagation through cuttings takes longer than seed propagation, and the success rate is also lower. Hence, it is recommended to propagate through seeds for this plant.
Disease Management
Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera generally does not suffer from many diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by various fungal diseases.
Powdery mildew – It is a common fungal disease that can affect the leaves and stem of the plant. Infected leaves will have a powdery white appearance. To manage this disease, regular scouting and maintaining proper spacing between the plants are necessary. Apply fungicides as soon as symptoms are noticed.
Fusarium wilt – The disease is characterized by the sudden wilting of the plant. It is caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum. The disease usually occurs when the plant is stressed. Plant resistant varieties and maintain proper soil moisture to prevent the disease.
Pest Management
Phacelia lutea var. glandulifera is not commonly attacked by pests. However, below are some of the pests that can attack this plant.
Aphids – They are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant. Aphids can cause stunted plant growth and deformity. Natural predators and insecticidal soaps are effective in managing aphids.
Thrips – They are also small, slender insects that suck the sap from the leaves and buds. Thrips cause the leaves to become distorted and turn white. Remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid overhead irrigation.
Spider mites – These pests feed on the plant cells in clusters on the underside of leaves, causing webbing and discoloration. Blast off infested leaves with a strong jet of water and apply predatory mites or insecticidal soap if necessary.
Regular monitoring for pest infestations, maintaining proper plant hygiene, and providing adequate light and air circulation can help prevent and manage pest infestations.
