Phacelia pedicellata facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phacelia pedicellata |
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Phacelia
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pedicellata
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Phacelia pedicellata, also known as specter phacelia or pedicellate phacelia, is a type of flowering plant. It belongs to the borage family, called Boraginaceae. This plant grows naturally in the southwestern United States and Baja California. You can find it in different places, like areas with creosote bushes or Joshua trees.
Contents
About Specter Phacelia
What Does it Look Like?
The specter phacelia is an annual herb. This means it completes its whole life cycle in one year. It usually grows straight up, reaching about 50 centimeters (almost 20 inches) tall. Its stem is covered in tiny glands and stiff hairs.
The leaves of this plant can be up to 12 centimeters (about 5 inches) long. They have round or oval shapes. The biggest leaves are often divided into 3 to 7 smaller parts, like tiny leaflets.
The plant's flowers grow in a special way. They form a curving or coiling shape on one side of the stem. These flower clusters are also hairy and glandular. Each flower looks like a small bell and is about half a centimeter long. They can be pink or blue.
Where Does it Grow?
This plant loves dry places. It grows well in the deserts of the southwestern United States and Baja California. You can often spot it in areas with creosote bushes. It also thrives in woodlands where Joshua trees grow. These habitats are usually quite warm and dry.
A Plant with a Secret
The specter phacelia has a unique feature. Its stems, leaves, and flowers are covered in tiny hairs. These hairs can release small drops of oil. For some people, touching these oils can cause a mild skin rash. It's a bit like how some other plants can make your skin itchy. So, it's best to look at this plant without touching it!
See also
In Spanish: Phacelia pedicellata para niños
