Overview
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum is a perennial plant native to the western part of North America. It is a member of the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae) and has several common names, including woolly buckwheat and inyo buckwheat.
Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet and has a woody base with several stems. The leaves are small, woolly, and gray-green in color. The flowers are pink to white and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant blooms from late spring to mid-summer.
Uses
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum is mainly used for landscaping purposes due to its attractive appearance and resistance to drought and poor soil conditions. It is also used for erosion control and habitat restoration in the western United States.
The plant has historically been used by Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, including as a treatment for stomach ailments and to ease pain and swelling.
Cultivation
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum prefers well-drained, dry soils in full sun. It is adaptable to various soil types, including rocky or sandy soils. The plant is drought tolerant and does not require supplemental watering once established. It is propagated through seed or by dividing the woody base.
Light conditions
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum requires full sun exposure to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but it may result in stunted growth and reduced flowering. Therefore, it's best to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature requirements
This plant is native to desert areas, so it can tolerate high temperatures well. It grows best in areas with warm to hot summers and mild winters. In terms of specific temperature ranges, it can survive temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C) and as high as 110°F (43°C).
Soil conditions
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum prefers well-draining soil with low to moderate fertility. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. However, it can't tolerate waterlogged conditions, so it's essential to ensure adequate drainage. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.0 and 8.0.
Water requirements
This plant is drought-tolerant and only requires occasional watering once it's established. Overwatering can harm its roots and cause root rot, so it's best to water it deeply only when the topsoil becomes dry to the touch. In regions with regular rainfall, it may not need supplemental watering at all.
Cultivation methods
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum is a low-maintenance perennial plant that requires full sunlight exposure to grow efficiently. It is also adaptable to different soil types, including well-draining, rocky, and sandy soils.
It is advisable to plant this species during the fall or early spring. In preparation for planting, till the soil and remove any weeds or debris. Space the plants approximately 1-2 feet apart to give ample room for growth.
Watering needs
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum is a drought-tolerant plant and requires minimal watering once it is established. When newly planted, water the plant once every week until it establishes roots. After that, watering should be reduced to once every 4-6 weeks, depending on weather conditions.
Fertilization
This plant species is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soils and does not require regular fertilization. However, if you want to boost your plant's growth, you can apply a diluted low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as 5-10-10 or 10-10-10, during the spring season. Avoid over-fertilization, which can encourage soft growth and fungal infections.
Pruning
Pruning Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum is not mandatory. However, if you want to shape the plant to a certain size or remove dead or damaged branches, you can prune the plant in late winter or early spring or wait until it has finished blooming. Cut the branches to about an inch above the soil surface.
Propagation of Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum, also known as Lockwood wild buckwheat, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae). It is a drought-tolerant plant that can grow up to 30 inches tall and 24 inches wide. The plant is native to Nevada and California, and it is commonly found in arid regions, including deserts and dry plains.
Propagating Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum can be done through several methods:
Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum is by using seeds. The seeds can be harvested from mature plants or purchased from a reputable supplier. To increase the chances of germination, the seeds should be stratified before planting. This means they should be stored in a cool, moist place for several weeks before planting. Once stratified, the seeds can be sown directly on the soil surface in late fall or early spring when the soil is moist. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum can also be propagated through cuttings. Take healthy stem cuttings from the parent plant in the late spring or early summer. Make sure the cuttings are at least 3 inches long and have a few leaves. Remove the lower leaves, and dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil evenly moist and place the cuttings in a shaded area to increase the chances of survival. The cuttings will root in about four to six weeks.
Division Propagation
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them in a new location or container. To divide the plant, dig up the entire plant, and carefully separate the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have a few shoots and a healthy root system. Replant the divided sections in a well-draining soil mixture and water thoroughly.
Overall, Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum is an easy plant to propagate. By following the correct propagation methods, gardeners can easily expand their plant collection and enjoy the beauty of this drought-tolerant plant species.
Disease Management
Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum plants are generally resistant to diseases, but there are still some common diseases that can affect them:
- Fungal Leaf Spots: These are caused by various fungi and are characterized by the appearance of small, circular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this condition, remove the affected leaves and keep the plant properly pruned and well-ventilated.
- Root Rots: These are caused by waterlogging and overwatering. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant. If roots are already damaged, consider treating the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Although Eriogonum capistratum Reveal var. capistratum plants are generally pest-resistant, there are still some common pests that can cause problems:
- Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the plant, resulting in leaf discoloration and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These pests also suck sap from the plant and can cause discoloration and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly, introduce natural predators or apply miticides.
- Caterpillars: These insects eat the plant's foliage and can cause significant damage. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT).
