Needle-leaf navarretia (Navarretia intertexta)

Also known as: Woolly gilia, Needleweed

Needle-leaf navarretia (Navarretia intertexta) is a unique, small annual plant native to western North America. Here are its key characteristics and growing conditions:

### Characteristics:
- **Form:** Exhibits a needle-like, finely divided leaf structure.
- **Flowers:** Produces small, clustered, tubular flowers that range in color from blue to purple or white.
- **Growth Habit:** Typically reaches heights of 10-30 cm and can form compact, low-lying mats.
- **Habitat:** Commonly found in vernal pools, meadows, and other moist, open environments.

### Growing Conditions:
- **Soil:** Favors well-drained, sandy, or clay soils.
- **Moisture:** Relies on seasonal moisture, thriving in areas with wet winters and dry summers.
- **Light:** Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- **Climate:** Well-suited to Mediterranean climates, though it can adapt to various conditions.

This resilient plant contributes to the diversity of seasonal wetlands and meadows, thriving in specific microhabitats with its seasonal moisture requirements.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Needle-leaf navarretia

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

5 cm to 10 cm

Spread

Typically under 30 cm (12 inches) in diameter

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Approximately 1 cm (0.4 inches)

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Needle-leaf navarretia

Quickly Identify Needle-leaf navarretia

Navarretia intertexta can be identified by its needle-like, finely divided leaves and clusters of yellow flowers. The plant is generally small, with flowers forming dense, rounded heads. It often has a unique, pungent odor.

Scientific Classification of Needle-leaf navarretia

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Ericales

Family

Phlox

Genus

Navarretia

Species

Needle-leaf navarretia

Planting and Growing of Needle-leaf navarretia

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-72℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Needle-leaf navarretia?

Navarretia intertexta requires careful watering based on its natural habitat. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as this plant thrives in well-drained conditions. Aim for around 250 ml of water per session, focusing on maintaining consistent moisture levels without allowing the plant roots to sit in water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Needle-leaf navarretia? ›

What should I do if my Needle-leaf navarretia is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Needle-leaf navarretia? ›

How to save an overwatered Needle-leaf navarretia? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Needle-leaf navarretia?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Navarretia intertexta thrives in full to partial sun, needing between 6 to 8 hours of sunlight. This range supports vibrant flowering and robust growth. The plant benefits from increased photosynthetic rates, leading to overall improved health.

What is the optimal light level for Navarretia intertexta? ›

How can I ensure my Navarretia intertexta gets its ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does Navarretia intertexta gain from ideal sunlight conditions? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Needle-leaf navarretia?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 72℉

The ideal temperature range for growing Navarretia intertexta is between 60°F to 72°F. This range allows the plant to perform optimally, supporting robust growth and vibrant blooming. It's important to maintain consistent temperatures because fluctuations can stress the plant, leading to inhibited growth or health issues.

What Soil is Best for Needle-leaf navarretia?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Navarretia intertexta appreciates soil with excellent drainage capabilities. This helps prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Proper drainage ensures that the plant's roots receive adequate oxygen and nutrients, promoting vigorous growth. While Navarretia intertexta is adaptable, it thrives in soils that are slightly alkaline rather than overly acidic. This pH balance helps maximize nutrient uptake efficiency, making the plant healthier and more resilient to environmental stress. This plant flourishes in soils with low to moderate fertility. Overly rich soil can lead to vigorous vegetative growth at the expense of flowering. Maintaining balanced nutrient levels supports a strong flowering for optimal visual appeal.

How to Fertilize Needle-leaf navarretia?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Navarretia intertexta, use a balanced fertilizer at a rate of 1 teaspoon per gallon of water when applying liquid fertilizers. This ensures the plant receives essential nutrients without the risk of nutrient burn. The soil should be moist before fertilizer application to facilitate nutrient absorption and prevent root damage.

How to Prune Needle-leaf navarretia?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by identifying and removing any dead or damaged stems. This directs energy towards healthier growth and prevents pest infestations. To maintain a compact shape, trim back stems by about one-third. This encourages branching and results in a denser plant. If you want to shape Navarretia intertexta, make cuts just above a pair of leaves or a growth node. This ensures the cuts are clean and supports regrowth in the desired shape. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Needle-leaf navarretia plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Fill the seed tray with fine potting mix and level it off. Ensure the soil is moistened evenly to create a conducive environment for seed germination.

Distribute the Navarretia intertexta seeds evenly across the surface of the potting mix. Press them gently into the soil but do not cover them entirely as they need light to germinate.

Cover the seed tray with a plastic lid or cling film to maintain humidity. Place the tray in a warm, well-lit area but avoid direct sunlight, which can overheat the seeds.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Needle-leaf navarretia plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Look for signs like roots growing out of drainage holes and compacted soil. These indicate the plant needs more space to thrive, typically in early spring or autumn when the plant has completed its most active growth period.

Select a pot slightly larger than the existing one. Ensure the pot has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, as Navarretia intertexta requires a dry-to-medium moisture level to avoid root rot.

Opt for a well-draining sandy loam. This ensures that water does not stay stagnant around the roots, providing essential aeration and nutrient retention, perfect for Navarretia's growing needs.