Origin
Phacelia strictiflora (Engelm. & Gray) Gray var. lundelliana Constance, commonly known as Lundell's phacelia, is native to Mexico. It is commonly found in the states of Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, and Zacatecas.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Blue curls, Fiddle necks, and Scorpionweed.
Uses
Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana is an important plant in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico for its medicinal, ecological, and ornamental uses. The plant has been traditionally used by native people as an antiseptic and for relieving respiratory ailments and rheumatism. The plant is also an important source of nectar for bees and other pollinators and is often used in habitat restoration projects. It is also used as an ornamental plant for its attractive blue-purple flowers.
General Appearance
Lundell's phacelia is an annual herb that typically grows up to 1-2 feet tall. The plant has branching stems covered with coarse hairs. The leaves are alternate, simple, and deeply lobed with 3-7 segments. The flowers are blueish-purple, tubular, and arranged in coiled clusters. The plant blooms in the spring and summer and fruits in the summer and fall, producing small nutlets.
Growth Conditions for Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana
Light: Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana prefers full sun exposure. It can tolerate light shade, but it may not perform as well in low light conditions.
Temperature: This plant species thrives in warm temperature conditions and is optimal between 70-85°F (21-29°C). It can tolerate temperature extremes from 50-100°F (10-38°C) for brief periods, but extended exposure to extreme temperatures can be detrimental to its growth.
Soil: Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH level between 6.0-7.0. The plant does not grow well in heavy clay soils or poorly drained soils. It prefers sandy loam soils and can tolerate some drought conditions.
Water: The plant requires moderate watering. It can tolerate some drought conditions, but it is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer: Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana does not require heavy fertilization. A light application of slow-release fertilizer during the growing season can help promote growth.
Propagation: This plant species can be propagated through seed. The seeds can be planted in the fall or early spring. It is important to scarify the seeds to help with germination.
Cultivation Methods
Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana is a species of annual plant that can be planted from seeds. When starting the seedlings, it is important to plant them in well-draining soil that contains organic matter, in a location that receives full sun or partial shade, and with good air circulation.
The ideal time to sow the seeds is in the early spring, as the weather starts to warm up, and the soil has warmed up to about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The seeds should be planted about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep, and 1 inch apart from each other. After planting, water the soil gently and keep it consistently moist while the seeds germinate, which usually takes about a week.
Watering Needs
Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana requires moderate watering, but it is essential to avoid waterlogging the soil, as this can lead to fungal growth and root rot. The soil should dry out slightly before watering again.
During the growth phase, the plant should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil moisture. The frequency of watering can be reduced when the plant has established, but it is still essential to keep the soil moist to encourage blooming.
Fertilization
Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana can benefit from a balanced fertilizer application during the growth stage, to encourage blooming and healthy foliage growth. A slow-release, granular fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium can be used in the spring and early summer.
It is recommended to avoid excessive use of nitrogen fertilizer, which can lead to lush foliage growth but hinder blooming. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for fertilizer application, and avoid applying it too close to the plant's stem to prevent burn and root damage.
Pruning
Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana does not require extensive pruning or trimming, but it may benefit from deadheading, which is the process of removing spent blooms to encourage new growth and blooming. This can be done by snipping the stem just above the spent flower or by pinching off the flower head with your fingers.
If the plant becomes straggly or excessively tall, a light pruning can be one to maintain the shape and size of the plant. However, it is advisable to avoid pruning the plant during the blooming phase, as this can reduce blooming and disturb the plant's growth cycle.
Propagation of Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana
Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana can be propagated both sexually and asexually. The plant produces seeds that can be used for sexual propagation, while stem cuttings can be used for asexual propagation.
Sexual Propagation
To propagate Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana sexually, collect the seeds from the mature fruit capsules. The best time for seed collection is when the fruit capsules have turned brown. After seed collection, dry the seeds for a few days before sowing.
Before sowing the seeds, prepare the planting area by removing weeds and other debris. The soil should be well-draining and moist. Sow the seeds on the soil surface, and do not cover with soil as the seeds require light to germinate. Water the planting area immediately after sowing.
The seeds will germinate within 7-14 days and will take about 3 weeks to establish a strong root system. Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana can also self-seed, but the plants produced this way may not have the same characteristics as the parent plant.
Asexual Propagation
The stem cuttings of Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana can be used for asexual propagation. Take the cuttings from the parent plant during the active growth period, usually in late spring or early summer. Choose healthy stems that have not produced flowers yet.
Make a clean cut through the stem, just below a node. Remove the leaves from the lower 2/3 of the cutting. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder, and then plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining, moist soil. Water the soil immediately after planting.
Place the pot in a shaded area, and mist the cutting regularly until it develops roots. The rooting process can take about 4-8 weeks. After the cutting has developed roots, transplant it to the desired location in the garden or a larger pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana
Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana, commonly known as Lundell's phacelia, is susceptible to various diseases and pests that may cause damage to the plant. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may fall off, leading to reduced photosynthesis and stunted growth. To manage leaf spot, it is advisable to remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Use of fungicides may also be necessary in severe cases.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of plants. Infected leaves appear powdery or dusty, and the plant may suffer from reduced photosynthesis and growth. To manage powdery mildew, improve air circulation around the plant, prune affected areas, and use fungicides when necessary.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They cause the leaves to turn yellow and curl, and may also transmit viruses that cause stunted growth and reduced crop yields. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, ladybugs, or other beneficial insects that feed on aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. They also produce webs that can interfere with photosynthesis and cause leaf drop. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to blast them off the plant or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of moths that feed on the stems of plants at night, causing wilting and stem collapse. To manage cutworms, handpick them at night when they are most active, use row covers, or apply bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural bacteria that is toxic to cutworms.
By being vigilant in disease and pest management and applying appropriate control measures, growers can effectively manage diseases and pests and promote the health and productivity of the Phacelia strictiflora var. lundelliana plant.
