Overview
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes is a plant species that is native to the western United States, specifically found in California and Nevada. It belongs to the buckwheat family, Polygonaceae, and has several common names such as alpine cushion buckwheat and cushion wild buckwheat.Appearance
The alpine cushion buckwheat is a compact perennial herb that typically grows up to 4 to 8 inches tall and 8 to 12 inches wide. It has densely matted cushion-like foliage that is gray-green and hairy. The leaves are small and spoon-shaped, measuring up to 1 inch long, and have curved edges that are rolled under. The plant produces clusters of small and round flower heads that are bright yellow and papery. Flowering typically occurs from June to August.Uses
The alpine cushion buckwheat is primarily used for ornamental purposes in rock gardens, alpine gardens, and container plantings. The plant is also known to attract butterflies and bees to the garden. In addition, some native American tribes reportedly used the roots of the Eriogonum chrysocephalum species to treat toothaches and sore throats.Conservation
The alpine cushion buckwheat is considered to be a threatened species due to habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation. The plant is known to occur in several protected areas such as the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, the Inyo National Forest, and the Yosemite National Park. Conservation efforts aimed at protecting the alpine cushion buckwheat include seed banking, habitat restoration, and reintroduction programs.Light Requirements
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes is a plant that is adapted to grow in areas that receive full sun. It thrives in open areas with little to no shade. Lack of adequate sunlight may result in stunted growth, weak stems, and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is typically found at high elevations in mountainous regions of the Western United States. It is adapted to grow in cold climates with average annual temperatures ranging from 40-60°F (4-16°C). During winter, temperatures can drop as low as -30°F (-34°C). The plant can survive in climates with short growing seasons and experience occasional frost events.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are low in nutrients. It grows well in soils that are rocky, sandy, and alkaline. Rocky soils provide good drainage, while sandy soils provide good aeration for the roots. The plant's low nutrient requirements make it adapted to growing in nutrient-poor soils, but it does need adequate moisture to thrive. Excessive moisture can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant.
Cultivation methods
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes, also known as alpine wild buckwheat, is a low-growing, short-lived perennial plant that is native to the western United States. It is adapted to the harsh alpine environment, and therefore requires well-drained, rocky or gravelly soil that is low in organic matter, and high in minerals and nutrients. To cultivate this plant, select a sunny location with good air circulation, and prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. Plant the seedlings or seeds in early spring after the last frost, and water them well to help them establish.
Watering needs
While Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes is drought-tolerant, it still needs regular watering during its growing season to produce healthy and vibrant blooms. Water the plants deeply once a week, rather than shallowly every day, as this will encourage the roots to grow deeper in search of water and nutrients. Avoid watering the plant too much during its dormant season, as this may cause the roots to rot.
Fertilization
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes does not require heavy fertilization. In fact, too much nitrogen can cause the plant to grow too tall and lanky, rather than compact and bushy. Instead, enrich the soil with some well-rotted compost in the fall or early spring, and top it with a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weed growth. Alternatively, you can add a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 5-10-5 or 10-10-10 analysis, once a year in early spring.
Pruning
Pruning Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes is not necessary, but it can help to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased stems. If you feel the plant is getting too tall and leggy, you can cut back the stems by one-third in early summer after the first flush of flowers has faded. This will encourage the plant to produce more lateral branches and foliage, and result in a denser and more compact growth habit.
Propagation of Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes, commonly called alpine goldenbush, belongs to the family Polygonaceae and is a shrubby perennial plant endemic to California. The plant grows up to 2 feet tall with leaves that are silvery and wooly on the undersides. Alpine goldenbush produces clusters of yellow flowers that bloom from June to September, making it an attractive ornamental species for gardens.
Propagation Methods
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes can be propagated through several methods that include seed propagation, cuttings, and division of the root ball. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method to propagate alpine goldenbush. The seeds can be collected from mature plants in late summer and fall. The seeds require some pre-treatment to germinate, and it is recommended to stratify them for 2-3 months in cold, moist conditions before planting them in the spring. Once the seeds germinate, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown to a size suitable for planting in the garden.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate alpine goldenbush. It involves cutting a stem with at least two nodes and removing the lower leaves to expose the node. The cutting is then dipped into rooting hormone and planted in a pot with a well-draining medium. The cutting should be kept moist, and it may take several weeks to root. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into the garden.
Root Division
Root division involves dividing the root ball of an established plant. This method is best done in early spring or fall. The plant is dug up and the root ball severed into several sections using a sharp knife or garden shears. Each section should have at least one stem and several healthy roots. After dividing the root ball, the sections are planted in individual pots or directly into the ground.
Overall, Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes can be propagated using different methods. It is important to choose the most practical and convenient method based on the gardener's availability, time, and skill level.
Disease Management
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes is generally a hardy plant with few disease problems. However, it can be affected by some fungal diseases.
One of the common fungal diseases that can affect this plant is powdery mildew. This disease usually appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide. Additionally, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Gray mold, also known as Botrytis cinerea, is another fungal disease that can affect this plant. This disease appears as a grayish mold on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is important to prune and dispose of the affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes is generally resistant to most pests, but some pests can still attack the plant.
One common pest that can affect this plant is the aphid. These small insects can appear in large numbers and suck the sap from the leaves and stems. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or a neem oil solution. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs can help control aphid populations.
Spider mites are another pest that can affect this plant. These tiny insects can cause webbing on the leaves and discoloration. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with a miticide or insecticidal soap. Additionally, maintaining good humidity levels around the plant can help prevent spider mite infestations.
Overall, regular monitoring of the plant and prompt management of any pests or diseases can help keep Eriogonum chrysocephalum Gray ssp. alpestre S. Stokes healthy and thriving.
