Family: Boraginaceae
Author: Pursh
Bibliography: Fl. Amer. sept. 1:140. 1813
Year: 1813
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Phacelia
Vegetable: False
Observations: NW. & WC. U.S.A. to Mexico
Description
Varileaf phacelia, known scientifically as Phacelia heterophylla, is a notable plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family. Originally described by Pursh in the early 19th century, this plant was first mentioned in the publication “Fl. Amer. sept.” in 1813.
Phacelia heterophylla is distinguished by its versatility and distinctive foliage, displaying a unique array of leaf shapes that contribute to its common name, “varileaf phacelia.” This rich diversity in foliage makes the plant particularly attractive and interesting to botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
The species is indigenous to a broad range of regions, spanning the northwestern and western central areas of the United States and extending as far south as Mexico. This wide distribution underscores the plant’s adaptability to various environments, from coastal areas to more arid landscapes.
Varileaf phacelia thrives in different habitats, often found in open woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes. The plant’s ability to flourish in these varied settings speaks to its resilience and ecological significance. Additionally, Phacelia heterophylla plays a vital role in its ecosystems, with its flowers providing a rich source of nectar for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
In terms of appearance, varileaf phacelia typically grows to a moderate height, and its foliage ranges from simple ovate to deeply lobed leaves. The blooms are usually small but abundant, forming clusters that are visually appealing and ecologically beneficial.
Overall, varileaf phacelia is a remarkable species that not only contributes to biodiversity but also serves as an essential plant for pollinators in numerous regions across the United States and Mexico. Its adaptability and aesthetic foliage make it a valued component of the natural landscape.
Common Names
Eng: variable-leaf scorpion-weed, varileaf phacelia, virgate phacelia, wand phacelia, variable-leaved phacelia, virgate scorpionweed
Fra: phacélie à feuilles variées
En: Varileaf phacelia, Variable-Leaf Scorpion-Weed, VIRGATE PHACELIA, Varileaf scorpionweed, Wand phacelia, Variable-leaved phacelia, Virgate scorpionweed
Fr: Phacélie à feuilles variées
Synonyms
- Phacelia magellanica f. heterophylla ((Pursh) Brand)
- Phacelia heterophylla var. typica (Dundas)
- Phacelia circinata var. heterophylla ((Pursh) Kuntze)
- Phacelia magellanica var. heterophylla ((Pursh) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Arizona (native)
- California (native)
- Colorado (native)
- Idaho (native)
- Masachusettes (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Northeast (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Montana (native)
- Nevada (native)
- New Mexico (native)
- Oregon (native)
- Utah (native)
- Washington (native)
- Wyoming (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jul 19, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 15, 2021 by RasaSol (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 13, 2008 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken May 13, 2010 by EOL − Genevieve K. Walden (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 4, 2022 by bill oconnor (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Jan 27, 2021 by DAngelo luisa (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2018 by Sandy Rowley (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 6, 2022 by Zoia Eugenia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 12, 2018 by Sandy Rowley (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 13, 2010 by EOL − Genevieve K. Walden (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Feb 26, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 1, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Aug 1, 2015 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jul 19, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 3, 2009 by EOL − Genevieve K. Walden (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
© 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/2928077)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:191856-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Phacelia heterophylla Pursh)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
