Origin
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii (Brand) J.T. Howell is a species of flowering plant in the borage family (Boraginaceae) native to North America, specifically the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico.
Common Names
This plant is known by several common names, including Goodding's phacelia, Great Basin phacelia, and Goodding's scorpionweed.
Uses
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii is often used in native plant revegetation and restoration projects, as it is a hardy and resilient species that can grow in a variety of soils and climates. It is also valued for its nectar and pollen, which attract bees and other pollinators. Some Native American tribes have used the plant for medicinal purposes.
General Appearance
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii is a perennial herb that typically grows to about 2-4 feet tall and has a bushy, branching form. It has bright blue or purple flowers that bloom in spring and summer, and its foliage is generally green and somewhat hairy. The plant thrives in dry, sandy or gravelly soils, and can often be found in desert regions and other arid environments.
Light Requirements:
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii requires full sun to part shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but may produce fewer flowers. Direct sunlight of at least 6 hours per day is recommended.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from freezing to hot conditions. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (15.5°C to 29.4°C). It is important to note that temperatures below 50°F (10°C) may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements:
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It can tolerate some sand, clay, and rocky soils but will not grow well in heavy clay soils. Organic matter can be added to the soil before planting to improve soil fertility. It is important to avoid waterlogged soils as they can cause root rot and damage the plant.
Cultivation methods
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii (Brand) J.T. Howell thrives in well-draining soils, moderated temperatures, and adequate sunlight. This plant can be propagated both from seeds and stem cuttings. You can sow the seeds in a seedbed, and once they have grown to a desirable size, you can transplant them into larger containers or directly into the garden. If you opt for stem cuttings, it is better to take them during the growing season from well-developed plants and dip them in rooting hormones before planting them in well-draining soils.
Watering needs
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii (Brand) J.T. Howell requires moderate watering. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged or excessively dry. Young plants need more watering than the established ones, but if you are growing them indoors, you must use filtered water as tap water may contain high levels of minerals that can damage the plant. Be careful not to overhead water as it can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The plant requires minimal fertilization, and you only need to apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. The fertilizer should have the necessary nutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential for the plant's healthy growth. However, apply it in moderation and follow the instructions on the packet. Excessive fertilization can lead to excess foliage growth at the expense of flower development.
Pruning
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii (Brand) J.T. Howell does not need extensive pruning, except for the removal of dead or diseased leaves and flowers. You can cut back the stems after blooming in the late summer to encourage the plant to regrow and improve its branch structure. Additionally, regularly deadheading the flowers can promote continuous blooming throughout the growing season. Be careful when pruning not to damage the soft stems, as they can snap easily.
Propagation of Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii (Brand) J.T. Howell
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii (Brand) J.T. Howell, commonly known as Goodding's phacelia, can be propagated through various methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii. Collect the seeds from a mature plant and sow them in well-draining soil. The ideal time to sow seeds is in spring or early summer when soil temperatures are warm. Ensure the soil is consistently moist until germination.
Division
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii can also be propagated through division. Divide mature plants in the fall or early spring, ensuring that each section has both roots and shoots. Replant in well-draining soil, ensuring you keep the soil consistently moist until the plant establishes.
Cuttings
Although not as common, Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii can be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings from new growth during the summer months, ensuring each cutting has a minimum of two sets of leaves. Pinch off the lower set of leaves and dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and ensure it stays consistently moist until roots develop.
Disease Management for Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii
Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii is generally a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many diseases. However, there are a few diseases that can affect the plant. One such disease is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew can cause leaves to turn yellow and wither, ultimately leading to the death of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, one can use a fungicide. One can also remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bacterial leaf spot is another disease that can affect Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii. Symptoms of the disease include water-soaked spots on leaves that eventually turn brown and fall off. To manage bacterial leaf spot, one can use copper fungicides. However, prevention is key to managing this disease. Planting disease-resistant varieties is one way to prevent bacterial leaf spot. Additionally, regular pruning and sanitation practices can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii
Like most plants, Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii can be affected by pests. One common pest that can affect the plant is aphids. Aphids can cause yellowing and curling of leaves, stunted growth, and even death of the plant. To manage aphids, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Another effective method is to introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps that feed on aphids.
Cutworms can also affect Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii. Cutworms are caterpillars that chew through the stems of the plants. To manage cutworms, one can use Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural biopesticide that specifically targets caterpillars. Planting cutworm-resistant varieties and using physical barriers like collars or cardboard rings around the base of the plants can also help prevent cutworm infestations.
Another pest that can be a problem for Phacelia pulchella Gray var. gooddingii is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and drying of leaves. To manage spider mites, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Additionally, increasing humidity around the plant can help prevent spider mite infestations.
Overall, preventing pests and diseases is always easier than trying to manage them after they have become established. Regularly inspecting the plant, maintaining good sanitation practices, and providing optimal growing conditions can go a long way in preventing infestations. When pests and diseases are identified, prompt and appropriate action should be taken to prevent their spread and damage to the plant.
