Lacy Phacelia, Blue Tansy
phacelia tanacetifolia
Also known as: ["Blue Tansy","Scorpion Weed"]
Overview
An annual flowering plant native to western North America, known for its attractive blue-purple flowers that resemble a scorpion's tail.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Hydrophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Phacelia |
| Botanical Name: | Phacelia tanacetifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden beds, borders, or as a cover crop
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but performs best with moderate fertility.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed during the growing season; deadhead regularly to promote continuous flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; primarily involves deadheading and occasional shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct sunlight; adjust for extreme heat by providing afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; avoid sudden exposure to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for signs of sunburn or etiolation.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend with organic matter for fertility; maintain consistent moisture levels.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C).
Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust watering and light exposure accordingly; protect from extreme cold or heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding during flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; seeds are the most common and reliable method for Phacelia tanacetifolia.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain consistent moisture and warmth.
- Transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid environment with bright indirect light; protect from direct sunlight and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a blend of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 7–14 days under optimal conditions; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle, grow lights (optional).
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster germination; thin seedlings as needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node or lateral bud; trim leggy growth to encourage bushier habit.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing spent flowers to encourage reblooming and maintaining plant shape.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors; clean tools between cuts to prevent disease spread.
Checklist
Remove spent blooms; trim leggy stems; clean tools; monitor for pests or diseases.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure adequate drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant from pot; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger container.
Suggestions
Generally not required unless grown in containers; repot if roots become crowded or growth slows.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at root zone; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone to avoid foliage wetting; apply until water drains from the bottom; ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter or dormant periods; adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for improved drainage; use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; leaf scorch in intense sunlight.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged frost can damage tender tissues but the plant is generally hardy to light freezes.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch around the base to insulate roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location during freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower abortion, and reduced vigor; heat stress may cause leaves to curl or scorch.
Solution: Increase watering frequency during heatwaves; provide afternoon shade; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter or dormant periods.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhacelia tanacetifolia is not considered toxic to cats. It is safe for cats to be around or consume small amounts of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPhacelia tanacetifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. It is safe for dogs to be around or consume small amounts of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicPhacelia tanacetifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is often used as a cover crop and forage plant due to its non-toxic nature.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phacelia tanacetifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Phacelia tanacetifolia?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Phacelia tanacetifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hydrophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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