Phacelia malvifolia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phacelia malvifolia |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Phacelia
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| Species: |
malvifolia
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The Phacelia malvifolia, often called the stinging phacelia, is a special type of plant. It is known for its tiny hairs that can cause a stinging feeling if you touch them. This plant naturally grows in California, especially along the northern and central parts of its coast. You can also find it a little bit north into southwestern Oregon. It likes to live in forests and areas with lots of bushes.
About the Stinging Phacelia
The stinging phacelia is an annual herb. This means it grows from a seed, blooms, makes new seeds, and then dies all within one year. It usually stands straight up and can grow quite tall, sometimes reaching almost one meter (about three feet) high.
What Does It Look Like?
This plant is covered in stiff, yellowish hairs. These hairs have a special base that looks like a tiny bulb. When you touch them, these hairs can cause a stinging feeling, similar to what some other plants do. This is why it's called the stinging phacelia!
Its leaves are also a bit rough and can be up to 14 centimeters (about 5.5 inches) long. The bigger leaves are often divided into three parts, and each part might have rounded edges or lobes.
Its Flowers
The flowers of the stinging phacelia grow in a unique way. They form a cluster that curves or coils, almost like a snail's shell. These clusters are covered in hairs, just like the rest of the plant. Each flower is shaped like a small bell and is usually whitish in color. They are quite tiny, only about half a centimeter (less than an inch) long.
Where Does It Grow?
The stinging phacelia is a native plant, meaning it has always grown in the areas where it is found today. It loves the California Coast Ranges and the coastal areas of California. It also extends its range slightly north into southwestern Oregon. You can often spot it growing in forest areas and in places with lots of scrub, which are areas with small trees and bushes.
