Overview
Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes, commonly known as Orenda Mesa buckwheat, is a small perennial herb that is native to Southwestern United States. It belongs to the family Polygonaceae, which includes around 1,200 species of flowering plants.
Origin
The Orenda Mesa buckwheat is mainly found in the Colorado Plateau and its distribution spreads to Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado. It can be spotted at an elevation of 5,000 to 8,500 feet.
Appearance
The plant is a small perennial herb that forms a compact cushion-like mat. It features small leaves with hairy, silvery-gray coloration and slender stems that are covered in yellowish-green flowers. Its flowers bloom from summer to early fall, where they can be seen in dense clusters, making it a great ornamental plant. It can grow up to 4 inches tall and spread up to 12 inches wide.
Uses
The Orenda Mesa buckwheat holds cultural and medicinal significance. The plant has been used by the Native American tribes as a traditional remedy for various stomach and digestive ailments. It is also used as an ornamental plant in xeriscapes, rock gardens, and other low-water landscape designs. Its easy maintenance, year-round foliage, and long blooming season make it a great choice for landscaping.
Furthermore, the plant is notable for its ability to withstand harsh growing conditions, including drought, extreme temperatures, and poor soils, making it a suitable plant for a range of environmental settings.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes typically grows in areas that receive full sun. It requires direct exposure to sunlight for at least 6 hours each day to grow properly. It can tolerate some shade during the day but thrives in full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a range of temperature conditions, but its growth is optimal in temperatures between 55°F and 85°F. Extreme heat or cold can cause stunted growth or even death. Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes is adapted to grow in areas with dry summers and wet winters.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils with a mixture of sand and gravel. It can grow in soils that are nutrient-poor, rocky, and shallow. It is suited to grow in soils with a neutral pH ranging between 6.5 and 7.5. Too much moisture or water-logging can cause root rot and damage the plant.
Cultivation methods
Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes, commonly known as the Idaho buckwheat, is a perennial plant that requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. When planting, it is recommended to space the plants at least two feet apart to ensure enough room for growth. Additionally, it is crucial to choose a planting location that allows the plant to receive adequate sunlight and air circulation.
Watering needs
Although Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes is drought-tolerant, it still needs regular watering during its growing season. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week or more frequently if the soil is particularly dry. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can lead to root rot and other issues.
Fertilization
Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes does not require frequent fertilization. In fact, too much nitrogen can lead to long and thin stems, which can make the plant more susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer during its active growth period. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions and not to over-fertilize the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes is not necessary, but it can help to maintain the plant's shape and promote bushier growth. It is best to prune the stems back to a healthy leaf node, and it is recommended to do so during the dormant season. Pruning too early or excessively can cause the plant to produce fewer flowers or lead to weaker growth.
Propagation of Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes
Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes, commonly known as Shasta buckwheat, is a popular landscape plant due to its attractive foliage and showy flowers. Propagation of this plant can be accomplished by several methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense. Seeds can be obtained from mature plants or purchased from reputable seed sources. To ensure successful germination, seeds should be sown in well-drained soil in early spring. A light covering of soil should be applied to the seeds, and they should be kept moist until germination.
It is important to note that Shasta buckwheat seeds have a hard seed coat and may benefit from scarification prior to sowing. This can be done by rubbing the seeds with sandpaper or nicking the seed coat with a sharp knife.
Vegetative Propagation
Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense can also be propagated vegetatively using stem cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and should be taken from the current season's growth. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept out of direct sunlight until they have rooted.
Disease Management
Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is not often affected by serious diseases. However, it can still be susceptible to some fungal and bacterial infections.
One such disease is powdery mildew, which can be recognized by the presence of a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is important to water the plant at the base and avoid getting the leaves and stem wet. In addition, removing any infected plant material and providing proper air circulation can help prevent the spread of this disease.
Another disease that can affect Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes is leaf spot, which causes brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any infected leaves and provide proper air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
Pest Management
Like most plants, Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes is also susceptible to attacks from insect pests. Two common pests that can affect this plant are aphids and spider mites.
Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing leaf distortion and yellowing. To manage an aphid infestation, it is important to wash the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the insects. In some cases, insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control aphids.
Spider mites are another pest that can damage Eriogonum brevicaule Nutt. ssp. orendense (A. Nels.) S. Stokes. These tiny pests feed on the underside of leaves, causing stippling and yellowing. To manage an infestation, it is important to wash the plant with a strong jet of water and provide proper air circulation to prevent moisture buildup. In some cases, neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used to control spider mites.
