Navarretia leucocephala is a species of flowering plant in the phlox family known by the common name whitehead pincushionplant, or whitehead navarretia. It is native to North America, including much of the western United States and central Canada. It generally grows in wet or moist terrestrial habitat such as vernal pools. It is an annual herb producing a slender, hairy stem. The plant's appearance is variable, and there are several subspecies that differ slightly. The appearance of the plant also depends on the amount of water available in its habitat. The leaves are divided into many needlelike lobes. The inflorescence is a head of flowers lined with leaflike bracts. Each tubular flower is up to a centimeter long. The flowers vary in color from white to blue. Two rare California subspecies are federally listed as endangered species in the United States. Subspecies:
N. l. ssp. bakeri (Baker's navarretia) - an uncommon subspecies limited-endemic to California north of the Bay Area N. l. ssp. leucocephala - can be found in central California and Oregon N. l. ssp. minima (least navarretia) - the most widespread subspecies N. l. ssp. pauciflora (few-flowered navarretia) - endangered plant known from about 10 occurrences endemic to California north of the Bay Area N. l. ssp. plieantha (many-flowered navarretia) - endangered plant known from about 10 occurrences endemic to the same range as ssp. pauciflora
Whitehead navarretia is fairly resistant to disease and generally not prone to illnesses. That said, it can be vulnerable to pests and diseases present in its environment. These infections tend to be minor. Care-wise, the plant requires moderate maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to maintain a neat appearance and support healthy growth. Fertilizing can also aid in encouraging flowering. Whitehead navarretia is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive gardening experience. It may need more attention when grown indoors.
How to keep Navarretia Leucocephala.
Fertilizer
Whitehead navarretia responds well to regular, dilute applications of fertilizer to encourage healthy leaf growth. Fertilize Whitehead navarretia about once a month during the summer. Nitrogen is essential for foliage, and providing nitrogen-rich sources helps Whitehead navarretia thrive.
Pruning
Prune whitehead navarretia from early to late spring by removing any dead parts to promote healthy growth and blooming. Light trimming helps maintain the plant's shape and encourages dense foliage. Making clean cuts prevents disease and enhances air circulation and sunlight penetration, both of which are crucial for the health of whitehead navarretia.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Annual
- Genus
- Navarretia
- Family
- Polemoniaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 6-9
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
Other names.
