Distant phacelia (Phacelia distans, Bot. Voy. Sulphur: 36 (1844))

Family: Boraginaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: Bot. Voy. Sulphur: 36 (1844)

Year: 1844

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Phacelia

Vegetable: False

Observations: SW. U.S.A. to N. Mexico

Description

Distant phacelia, scientifically known as Phacelia distans, is a remarkable flowering plant within the Boraginaceae family. First documented in the mid-19th century by the renowned botanist George Bentham, Phacelia distans was brought to the forefront of botanical literature in his work “Botany of the Voyage of the Sulphur,” published in 1844.

This resilient species thrives predominantly in the southwestern regions of the United States and extends into northern Mexico, adapting remarkably well to the diverse climatic and geological environments found in these areas. Characterized by its distinctive clusters of delicate, bell-shaped flowers, Distant phacelia adds a touch of natural beauty to arid landscapes.

The plant’s blossoms, typically shades of soft blue and violet, attract an array of pollinators, thus playing a crucial role in the ecosystem. Its ability to flourish in tough conditions reflects its evolutionary success and adaptability.

Distant phacelia is not just a visual delight; its role in supporting pollinator populations also underscores its ecological significance. This species is a testament to nature’s remarkable biodiversity and the intricate web of life that sustains various forms of wildlife and flora in the southwestern U.S.A. and northern Mexico.

Understanding and appreciating such native plants is essential in preserving the natural heritage and ecological balance of these regions.

Common Names

Eng: distant phacelia
En: Distant phacelia, Distant Scorpion-Weed, Blue scorpionweed

Synonyms

• Phacelia distans subvar. ammophila (Brand)
• Phacelia distans var. eudistans (Brand)
• Phacelia distans subvar. genuina (Brand)
• Phacelia arthurii (Greene)
• Phacelia distans subvar. leptostachya (Brand)
• Phacelia distans var. scabrella (Brand)
• Phacelia ramosissima var. cinerea ((Eastw. ex J.F.Macbr.) Jeps.)
• Phacelia umbrosa (Greene)
• Phacelia leptostachya (Greene)
• Phacelia distans var. australis (Brand)
• Phacelia cinerea (Eastw. ex J.F.Macbr.)
• Phacelia scabrella (Greene)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• California (native)
• Masachusettes (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Nevada (native)
• Wisconsin (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Mar 28, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Albert P. Bekker (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 2, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 1, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Feb 28, 2016 by EOL − Tony Palmer (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 21, 2014 by EOL − Don Loarie (cc-by)

Taken Jul 29, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Dec 30, 2008 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Fruit

Taken Mar 13, 2022 by Anne Mossberg (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 3, 2014 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 5, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 28, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 28, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 28, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)

Bark

Taken Feb 29, 2016 by EOL − Neil Frakes (cc-by-nc)

Taken Mar 22, 2016 by EOL − Mike Woodring (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 29, 2012 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

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

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

© 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/2928156)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30005313-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phacelia distans Benth.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth