Family: Boraginaceae
Author: Hook.
Bibliography: Bot. Mag. 62: t. 3452 (1835)
Year: 1835
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Phacelia
Vegetable: False
Observations: Oklahoma to N. Mexico
Description
Blue curls, scientifically known as Phacelia congesta, is a captivating plant species belonging to the Boraginaceae family. This remarkable plant was first documented in 1835 by Hooker in the Botanical Magazine, where it was beautifully illustrated in plate 3452 of volume 62. Its fascinating blooms and unique characteristics have garnered attention and admiration from botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
Phacelia congesta is native to regions extending from Oklahoma to New Mexico, where it flourishes in its natural habitat. These areas provide an ideal environment for the plant, allowing it to exhibit its full potential in terms of growth and bloom. The plant is adapted to thrive in the diverse climatic and soil conditions found across its range.
One of the most striking features of Blue curls is its vibrant flowers, which are a true spectacle to behold. The blooms cluster densely, creating a compact and visually appealing display. The flowers exhibit a captivating blue hue, which is where the common name “Blue curls” originates. The blue flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and other insects, playing a critical role in the ecosystem by aiding in pollination.
The plant’s foliage is also noteworthy. The leaves are typically green and can range in size and shape, adding texture and depth to the plant’s overall appearance. Together with the striking blue flowers, the foliage enhances the plant’s ornamental value, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping projects.
Blue curls are not only admired for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ecological significance. As native plants, they contribute to the biodiversity of their habitats, supporting a range of wildlife species. Their role in pollination and as a food source for insects underscores their importance in maintaining ecological balance.
In summary, Blue curls (Phacelia congesta) is a distinguished member of the Boraginaceae family, native to the regions spanning from Oklahoma to New Mexico. Documented by Hooker in the 19th century, this plant continues to captivate with its dense clusters of blue flowers and ecological contributions. Its beauty and versatility make it a cherished addition to both natural landscapes and cultivated gardens.
Common Names
Eng: caterpillars, blue curls, spike phacelia, blue-curls
Deu: dichtblütiges büschelschön
Swe: huvudfacelia
Hun: tömött mézontófű
En: Blue curls, Spike phacelia, Caterpillars, Blue-curls
De: Dichtblütiges Büschelschön
Hu: Tömött mézontófű
Sv: Huvudfacelia
Synonyms
- Phacelia dissecta ((A.Gray) Small)
- Phacelia congesta var. typica (J.W.Voss)
- Phacelia congesta var. dissecta (A.Gray)
- Phacelia conferta (G.Don)
Distribution
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oklahoma (native)
- Texas (native)
- Czechoslovakia (introduced)
- Illinois (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken May 1, 2015 by EOL − Carlos D. Ross (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 27, 2015 by EOL − Chuck Sexton (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 21, 2013 by EOL − Greg Lasley (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 11, 2014 by EOL − Kenneth Bader (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 9, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Habit
Taken Apr 15, 2014 by EOL − Kenneth Bader (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 18, 2014 by EOL − Julia Gregory (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 9, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 9, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 9, 2014 by EOL − Carlos Velazco (cc-by-nc)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2928134)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30243500-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phacelia congesta Hook.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
