Hound's-tongue Phacelia
phacelia cicutaria
Also known as: ["Scorpionweed","Caterpillar Phacelia"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant in the family Hydrophyllaceae, known for its distinctive coiled inflorescence resembling a scorpion's tail.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Hydrophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Phacelia |
| Botanical Name: | Phacelia cicutaria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open area with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed during flowering season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light, use sheer curtains in intense sun, avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings, avoid compacted soil, use gritty mix.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); prefers cooler nights.
Avoid drafts, maintain consistent temps, protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize sparingly, use balanced formula, stop in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation; direct sow or start indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly, keep moist, thin seedlings, transplant when established.
Best Time: Spring, when temperatures are mild and soil is warming.
Environment
Warm (65–70°F/18–21°C), bright indirect light, consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Germination in 7–14 days; mature plant in 60–90 days.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, soil, water spray bottle, labels.
Quick Tips
Sow densely for natural look, keep soil consistently moist, thin seedlings early.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadheading by pinching or cutting spent blooms just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged blooming.
Tools
Fine-tipped pruners or fingers for deadheading.
Checklist
Check for spent flowers, prune selectively, clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Transplant to a container or garden bed with adequate space for root expansion.
Method
Gently lift seedlings, transplant into prepared soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Not typically required; may be transplanted if overcrowded.
Checklist
Prepare new location, handle roots carefully, water after transplanting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; avoid heavy compost.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or death in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection, move indoors in cold weather, avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering, or premature seed set.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicPhacelia cicutaria is toxic to cats if ingested, as its compounds can induce severe adverse effects. The plant's toxins can disrupt normal physiological functions in felines, leading to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Phacelia cicutaria by dogs can lead to severe toxicity due to the plant's harmful compounds. These substances can cause significant gastrointestinal and systemic distress in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPhacelia cicutaria contains toxic compounds that can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxins interfere with cellular processes, leading to significant health risks.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Phacelia cicutaria toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is easy to care for and requires low maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hydrophyllaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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