Origin
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is a species of plant belonging to the morning glory family Convolvulaceae. The plant is native to California in the United States, specifically in the coastal and inland regions of northern and central California.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as hairy wild buckwheat, woolly buckwheat, and saucy baby. The name "buckwheat" comes from the plant's triangular seeds, which resemble that of the cereal crop buckwheat.
Uses
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt has a few medicinal uses. Native Californian tribes have used the ground seeds of the plant as a topical treatment for minor injuries and burns. The leaves and stems were also used to make a tea that is believed to treat stomach problems, such as diarrhea and nausea.
General Appearance
This plant is a small shrub or perennial herb that typically grows up to three feet high and three feet wide. The leaves are oval in shape, gray-green in color, and have fine white hairs on both surfaces. The flowers are small, pink or white, and emerge in clusters from June to September.
The plants have a unique appearance with soft-textured leaves, woolly stems, and dense clusters of flowers. The foliage is mildly scented, giving off a delicate floral aroma.
Growth Conditions for Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt, also known as Bear Creek Morning Glory, is a perennial herb that is native to California. This plant is typically found in dry, rocky habitats such as chaparral, oak woodland, and coastal scrub, and can often be seen growing on hillsides or steep slopes.
Light Requirements
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt prefers full sun to partial shade, and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. In shaded areas, the plant may grow taller and have smaller flowers compared to those grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers mild to warm temperatures and can tolerate a range of temperatures from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, it is not frost tolerant and can be damaged if temperatures drop below freezing. In colder climates, it is best to grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Soil Requirements
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it is important to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is native to dry, rocky slopes and hillsides in California. It is a hardy plant and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. It prefers full sun to partial shade and requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot.
Watering Needs
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt requires moderate watering during the first few months after planting to help establish root systems. Once it is established, it can thrive on natural rainwater alone. Avoid overwatering as this plant is susceptible to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt, but you can encourage healthy growth by adding organic matter, such as compost or aged-manure, to the soil before planting. Adding mulch around the plants can also help to keep the soil moist and cool.
Pruning
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt does not require regular pruning. However, if there are any damaged, diseased, or dead leaves or stems, you should remove them to promote healthy growth. You can also trim back any straggly or overgrown stems to promote a more compact growth habit.
Propagation of Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt, also known as Fuzzy-leaf morning glory, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. This plant species can be propagated through different methods that are discussed below:
Propagation via Seeds
One of the easiest methods to propagate Calystegia fulcrata ssp. tomentella is through seeds. The seeds of this plant species can be collected during the fall season when the seedpods start to dry up and turn brown in color. Once collected, the seeds can be stored in a cool and dry place until the following spring when they can be planted directly into the garden.
Before planting the seeds, it is recommended to scarify or stratify them. Scarification involves scratching or nicking the seed coat to help increase water absorption and improve germination rates. Stratification involves subjecting the seeds to cold temperatures for a certain amount of time, which helps to break their dormancy and prepare them for germination.
Propagation via Cuttings
Another method of propagating Calystegia fulcrata ssp. tomentella is through stem cuttings. This method is best done during the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To start, choose a healthy stem and make a clean cut, ensuring that the cutting is at least 4 inches long.
Once you have your cutting, remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone if desired. Afterward, plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist but not waterlogged. It is important to keep the cutting in a warm and humid environment until it has established roots and begins to show new growth.
Propagation via Division
Calystegia fulcrata ssp. tomentella can also be propagated through division, which involves separating the plant into smaller sections and transplanting them. This method is best done during the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant.
To start, carefully dig up the entire plant and use a sharp knife or garden tool to divide the rootball into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one growing tip and a healthy root system. Afterward, plant each section into a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist until it becomes established.
Regardless of the propagation method you choose, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and provide the necessary care to promote healthy growth and development.
Disease Management
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is typically resistant to most diseases and pests. However, it is susceptible to root rot caused by Phytophthora cactorum. To manage this disease, it is essential to plant the seeds or seedlings in well-draining soil to avoid waterlogging. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and do not plant them in areas where water stands after rainfall. Additionally, apply a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions if root rot becomes an issue.
Pest Management
Calystegia fulcrata (Gray) Brummitt ssp. tomentella (Greene) Brummitt is known to attract whiteflies, spider mites, and aphids. These pests often sap the sap and impair the plant's natural growth and development. To control whiteflies, regularly fertilize the plants with organic fertilizers and use yellow sticky traps to capture these insects. If aphids infest the plants, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage them. Both of these remedies are safe for the environment and will not harm beneficial insects. To manage spider mites, ensure that the plant has adequate moisture by irrigating it regularly and maintain a clean garden. Spider mites infestation is typically common in dry environments, so spraying the plants with a fine mist of water can help discourage these pests.
