Overview
Eriogonum breedlovei (J.T. Howell) Reveal is a species of flowering plant that is native to the western region of North America. It belongs to the family of Polygonaceae and is commonly referred to as Breedlove's buckwheat.
Origin and Distribution
Eriogonum breedlovei is native to California and primarily found in the Inyo County and Mono County area of the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains. It grows naturally in open, rocky slopes, talus, and outcrops at high elevations ranging from 2000 to 3000 meters.
Description
Eriogonum breedlovei is a low-growing herbaceous plant that reaches a height of about 2-3 inches. The leaves are basal, with a broad, round shape, and grow 2-5 cm long. The flowers are small, yellow, and clustered in tight heads located on long stalks that rise above the foliage. The inflorescence stems are reddish and slim, growing up to 20 cm long.
Uses
Eriogonum breedlovei is not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes. However, it is an attractive plant ffor ornamental and landscaping uses. The plant's low-growing nature and tightly clustered yellow flowers make it an excellent choice for rock gardens and border edges. It can also be added to native plant gardens and drought-tolerant landscapes.
Conservation
Eriogonum breedlovei is classified as a rare plant species and is on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List due to its limited distribution and the threat of habitat loss from human activities. The plant is also protected by the Endangered Species Act and requires permits for collection and removal from its natural habitat.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum breedlovei is native to the sunny slopes of the Inyo and White Mountains of California. As a result, it requires full sun exposure to thrive and grow to its fullest potential. It will struggle and even die in shady areas where it cannot receive the necessary amount of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Eriogonum breedlovei is hardy to USDA Zones 7-10. It can tolerate colder temperatures and even snow, as it is native to higher elevations in the mountains. However, it may not be able to withstand extreme temperatures, such as those found in desert areas. It prefers mild to warm temperatures (around 60-80°F) and a low humidity environment.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum breedlovei is adapted to growing in well-draining, sandy or gravelly soils. It can also thrive in rocky and clay soils as long as irrigation is not excessive. The soil pH should range between 6.5-7.5 for optimal growth. It is important to avoid planting Eriogonum breedlovei in waterlogged soil, as it is prone to root rot in such conditions.
Water Requirements
Eriogonum breedlovei is adapted to a semi-arid environment, which means it can tolerate periods of drought. However, it still requires moderate watering during the growing season, especially during prolonged periods of hot weather. It is best to avoid overwatering Eriogonum breedlovei, as it can lead to root rot. A layer of mulch around the plant can help retain moisture while also suppressing weeds.
Cultivation of Eriogonum breedlovei
Eriogonum breedlovei is a beautiful plant that requires specific cultivation methods to thrive. One of the best ways to cultivate the plant is by propagating it from seed. The seeds can be sown in the ground directly, but it's recommended to start the process indoors and then transplant them outside. The best time to sow seeds is in the late fall or early spring when the weather is cool.
It's also essential to choose a location that receives full sun and has well-draining soil. Eriogonum breedlovei prefers rocky or sandy soils over clay. If the soil in your area is clay-heavy, add sand and mulch to help break it up.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Eriogonum breedlovei vary according to its growing stage. Newly planted seeds need moisture consistently to germinate, but once they start growing, they need less water. However, during dry spells, the plant needs regular watering. Ensure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Eriogonum breedlovei is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require frequent fertilization. If the plant seems stunted, apply a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 in the early spring. Apply the fertilizer sparingly to avoid damaging the plant.
Pruning
Eriogonum breedlovei doesn't require regular pruning, but occasional pruning of dead or damaged leaves or branches is necessary. Remove any yellow or brown leaves to maintain the plant's overall health. Pruning can be done in the early spring before the plant starts to grow.
Propagation of Eriogonum breedlovei
Eriogonum breedlovei can be propagated by several methods. Here are some of the most common:
Seed propagation
One way to propagate Eriogonum breedlovei is through seed propagation. Seeds should be collected in the fall, after the plant has finished flowering. They should be sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until ready for use. To ensure germination, the seeds should be stratified for several weeks at a temperature of around 40°F. Once stratification is complete, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist in a sunny location. Under ideal conditions, seedlings can emerge in 2-3 weeks.
Root division
Eriogonum breedlovei can also be propagated through root division. This should be done in the fall or early spring, when the plant is dormant. The root ball should be carefully dug up and divided into several sections, making sure that each section contains at least one healthy shoot and a portion of the root system. Each section should be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until new growth appears.
Softwood cuttings
Another method of propagation is through softwood cuttings. This involves taking a cutting from the new growth on the plant in late spring or early summer. The cutting should be about 4-6 inches long and should include at least one node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and then dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Under ideal conditions, roots should appear in a few weeks.
Disease management
Eriogonum breedlovei is known for its strong resistance to diseases. However, certain environmental stressors such as high humidity or excess water can cause foliar diseases such as anthracnose or powdery mildew to occur. Infected foliage will start to develop spots, discoloration, and eventually cause leaf drop.
If you suspect foliar diseases in your E. breedlovei, the most effective management method is to remove infected leaves and provide proper ventilation to minimize environmental stress. Additionally, you can use fungicides such as copper-based products to control the spread of the disease.
Pest management
Like diseases, E. breedlovei is also resilient against pests. However, there are still several pests that can cause damage including spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests will usually feed on the plant's foliage causing discoloration, stunted growth, and eventually plant death.
If you suspect pest infestation in your E. breedlovei, start by manually removing the pests by spraying the plant with water or using an insecticidal soap. You can also attract natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control the pest population. If the infestation is severe, using a pesticide such as neem oil may be necessary. It is important to follow the label instructions and use pesticides only as a last resort as they can harm beneficial insects and the environment.
