Branching phacelia (Phacelia ramosissima, Nov. Stirp. Pug. 2: 21 (1830))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: Douglas ex Lehm.

Bibliography: Nov. Stirp. Pug. 2: 21 (1830)

Year: 1830

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Phacelia

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. British Columbia to NW. Mexico

Description

Branching phacelia, scientifically known as Phacelia ramosissima, is a captivating plant species belonging to the family Boraginaceae. First described in 1830 by the botanist David Douglas with further contributions by Johann Georg Christian Lehmann, Branching phacelia is renowned for its sprawling, sometimes woody habit and its ability to thrive in diverse environments.

This plant finds its home in regions ranging from southern British Columbia down to northwestern Mexico. Such a wide geographical range highlights its remarkable adaptability to various climates and terrains. The habitats it occupies can often be rugged, showcasing the plant’s resilient nature.

Branching phacelia typically showcases a robust structure with branched stems, giving it a distinctive and appealing bushy appearance. The foliage of this species is equally intriguing, often displaying pinnately divided leaves that embody an intricate beauty. During its blooming phase, the plant produces clusters of delicate, bell-shaped flowers. These flowers, usually adorned in shades of blue or violet, attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, playing a vital role in the local ecosystem.

Understanding the ecological importance and the striking beauty of Branching phacelia can foster greater appreciation and efforts towards its conservation. By acknowledging and protecting such species, we contribute to the preservation of our planet’s rich and diverse plant life.

Common Names

Eng: branching phacelia, branched phacelia, branching scorpionweed
Fra: phacélie rameuse
En: Branching phacelia, Branched phacelia, Branching scorpionweed
Fr: Phacélie rameuse

Synonyms

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• British Columbia (native)
• California (native)
• Idaho (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Utah (native)
• Washington (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Leaf

Taken Aug 28, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 21, 2005 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Flower

Taken Jul 21, 2005 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jun 18, 2019 by kalani kalani (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jun 18, 2019 by kalani kalani (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 1, 2010 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 21, 2005 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Aug 28, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 1, 2010 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 18, 2019 by kalani kalani (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Apr 8, 2012 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 12, 2013 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2928258)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30070383-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phacelia ramosissima Douglas ex Lehm.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Growth