Origin
Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell, also known as Rocky Mountain phacelia, is a flowering plant that is native to the western region of North America, specifically in the Rocky Mountains. It can be found in several states across the United States, including Colorado, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
Common Names
Aside from Rocky Mountain phacelia, this plant is also commonly known as mountain phacelia and mountain scorpionweed.
Uses
Phacelia scopulina is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. It is also used in ecological restoration projects where it serves as a natural source of food for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Some native tribes in North America also use the plant for medicinal purposes, specifically for treating skin abrasions.
General Appearance
Phacelia scopulina typically grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. Its leaves are bright green, hairy, and lance-shaped, growing up to 6 inches long. The plant’s flowers are small and tube-shaped, measuring approximately 1/4 inch in diameter, and are a light shade of blue to lavender or purple in color. The flowers bloom in clusters on the upper ends of the stems and attract various pollinators. The plant’s seeds, which are small and round, are enclosed in capsules that are typically covered in glandular hairs, making them sticky to the touch.
Light requirements
Phacelia scopulina requires full sun to partial shade to grow well. It can tolerate some shade but may become leggy and weak if grown in deep shade.
Temperature requirements
This plant is native to mountainous areas of western North America, where it grows in cool to cold climates. It can tolerate winter temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C) and summer temperatures up to 90°F (32°C). However, it grows best in a moderate temperature range of 60-75°F (15-24°C).
Soil requirements
Phacelia scopulina grows well in a range of soil types, including loam, sand, and gravelly soils. However, it prefers well-draining soils with decent fertility. It does not grow well in heavy clay soils that hold too much moisture.
The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, in the range of 5.5-7.5.
It is also important to note that this plant is tolerant of drought and low-nutrient soils, so it is often planted as a cover crop in disturbed areas or used for erosion control.
Cultivation methods for Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell
Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell is a beautiful and hardy plant that is relatively easy to grow and cultivate. This species of plant is an annual, and it is native to North America. To grow Phacelia scopulina successfully, you need to plant it in well-draining soil, which is rich in nutrients.
When planting Phacelia scopulina, make sure to expose the soil to direct sunlight as the plant thrives best in full sunlight. Plant it at a depth of about 0.25 inches (6mm) into the soil. Sow the seeds eight inches apart to promote proper growth and development, and make sure to water them immediately to assist the seed in settling into the soil.
Watering needs for Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell
Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell requires moderate to regular watering to grow and thrive. Water the plant deeply and infrequently to prevent waterlogging of the soil. This plant is drought-resistant, so it can survive long periods without water once the roots are well established. It's recommended to water the plant deeply once or twice weekly.
Fertilization requirements for Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell
Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell requires regular feeding to reach its maximum potential. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 and apply it weekly to the soil around the plant. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season from spring to autumn to maintain the healthy growth and development of the plant.
Pruning needs for Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell
Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell does not require pruning to grow and thrive, but it is still vital to remove any dead flowers and foliage. Deadheading the plant promotes new growth encouraging it to bloom again. If your plant starts to become too tangled or overgrown, you can trim it back by up to one-third, but make sure to do it moderately and don't cut too much of the plant.
Propagation of Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell
Phacelia scopulina (A. Nels.) J.T. Howell, commonly known as Rocky Mountain phacelia or Scabland phacelia, is a native plant of western North America. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 50 cm in height. It produces small blue-purple flowers that bloom from May to August. This plant species can be propagated by several methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the easiest way to propagate Phacelia scopulina. The seeds of this plant can be collected during the blooming period and sown directly into the prepared soil. It is essential to ensure the soil is sufficiently moist. The seeds will germinate in about 1-2 weeks and begin to grow quickly. The seedlings should be thinned out when they reach 2-3 inches tall, with spacing of 6-8 inches between each plant.
Cuttings Propagation
Phacelia scopulina can also be propagated through cuttings. Cuttings should be taken during the plant's growing season from healthy, vigorous plants. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long, and the leaves from the bottom should be removed. Dip the cut ends into the rooting hormone and then insert the cuttings in a potting mix with good drainage. Keep the cuttings moist and out of direct sunlight, and they should root within 2-3 weeks.
Division Propagation
Phacelia scopulina can be propagated through division but is not as frequently used. In the spring, the plant's clump should be dug out of the ground with a spade, and the root clumps should be divided. Each division should have several young shoots and a few healthy roots. The divided plants can be replanted in a new location with fertile, moist soil.
Overall, Phacelia scopulina is an easy plant to propagate through seed or cuttings. It is recommended to propagate this plant in the spring while it is actively growing. Regardless of the propagation method used, the new plants will need adequate moisture and well-draining soil to thrive.
Disease Management
Phacelia scopulina is generally resistant to most common diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal leaf spots and powdery mildew. To prevent fungal infections, it is important to avoid overhead watering and keep the foliage as dry as possible. Remove any infected leaves promptly to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungal infections can be treated by applying a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management
Phacelia scopulina may be attacked by a variety of insects, including aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Aphids and spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plants with a strong stream of water or by using an insecticidal soap. Caterpillars can be handpicked from the plants or treated with a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Another pest that may attack Phacelia scopulina is the root-knot nematode. These tiny worms can cause stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the foliage. To prevent nematode infestations, rotate crops and plant resistant varieties when possible. Nematicides may be used to control severe infestations, but they can be harmful to beneficial soil organisms and should be used sparingly.
