Palmer's phacelia

Description:

Palmer's Phacelia (Phacelia palmeri) is a rare plant found only on gypsum-rich soils, although on these soils, it can be locally common. The plant grows from a basal rosette of relatively long, feather-shaped leaves with crinkled edges. As the plant ages, it develops a stem, with a tuft of living leaves only atop the stem. In bloom, the plant develops a long, branching, but upright flower stalk. The flowers are purple. Basal rosette: about 2 inches; Erect stem to about 12 inches; flowering stalk to about 2-1/2 feet. Stems: Woody, with dead leaves attached. Leaves: simple, edges curled under, edges with slight lobes; to about 5 inches long. Flowers: Inflorescence: cyme. Corolla bell-shaped, 5 fused sepals, 5 purple petals. NOTE: Bristly hairs may cause severe dermatitis. Seeds: Fruit: capsule.

Habitat:

Palmer's Phacelia often is a dominant component of vegetation communities on gypsum-rich soils in the Upper Sonoran (Mojave Desert Scrub) life zone. Gypsum-rich soils, however, are rare in the Mojave Desert, so while this plant can be common where found, it is found in few places, and therefore is considered a rare plant. Elevation: 2,000 to 3,000 feet. Distribution: Southern Nevada, southeastern Utah, and northwestern Arizona. This unusual plant is often found in association with other gypsum-soil plants including California (Las Vegas) Bearpoppy (Arctomecon californica), Silverleaf Sunray (Enceliopsis argophylla), and Parry’s Sandpaper Bush (Petalonyx parryi).

Notes:

Near East Entrance of Valley of Fire, NV