Leivänjuurikukka

Leivänjuurikukka is a Finnish term that translates to "bread root flower." It refers to plants belonging to the genus *Phacelia*, commonly known as phacelia or scorpionweed. These plants are characterized by their distinctive coiled flower clusters, which resemble a scorpion's tail.

Phacelia species are native to the Americas but have become widely cultivated in Europe and other parts of the world, including Finland, primarily as a green manure crop. When grown as a cover crop, leivänjuurikukka is sown in fields after the main harvest. It grows rapidly, suppressing weeds and preventing soil erosion. Its dense root system helps to break up compacted soil, improving its structure and aeration.

Upon decomposition, the plant matter enriches the soil with organic matter and nutrients, particularly nitrogen, making it available for subsequent crops. This practice is a sustainable agricultural method that reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers and enhances soil health. Some species of phacelia also attract beneficial insects, such as bees and hoverflies, acting as a valuable food source and habitat. While not typically cultivated for direct consumption, its role in improving soil fertility has earned it the descriptive Finnish name leivänjuurikukka, highlighting its contribution to the agricultural cycle.