Overview
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum, also known as Snowball Buckwheat, is a perennial herbaceous plant. It belongs to the Polygonaceae family, which includes common plants such as rhubarb and buckwheat.
Origin
The Snowball Buckwheat is native to various regions in North America, ranging from California to British Columbia. The plant grows best in rocky, dry habitats such as mountain slopes, rocky outcrops, and dry meadows.
Appearance
The Snowball Buckwheat typically grows up to 80 cm tall, with stiff stems and numerous leaves. The leaves are greenish-gray, 5-15 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide. At the top of the stems are clusters of small cream to white flowers that bloom from July to September.
Common Names
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum is commonly known as Snowball Buckwheat, Composite Buckwheat, or Gray Buckwheat.
Uses
The plant has been historically used for medicinal purposes by indigenous tribes for treating conditions such as stomachaches, colds, and rheumatism. Nowadays, it is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive flowers and low maintenance requirements. Additionally, it is a valuable plant for pollinators such as bees and butterflies as it provides a source of nectar and pollen.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is a drought-resistant plant that can tolerate relatively harsh lighting conditions, but the ideal light for it to grow is bright sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a colder climate, which makes it a perfect fit for the typical growing conditions in the high-altitude regions of the Rocky Mountains. The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 20 degrees F to 100 degrees F.
Soil Requirements
It can grow in different types of soil, including sand, loam, and clay. However, the soil must be well-drained to prevent root rot. Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum can also tolerate soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum, commonly known as canyon buckwheat, is a low-maintenance plant that grows well in dry, rocky soils. It prefers areas with full sun exposure and doesn't require much watering or fertilization. This plant is highly adaptable and can survive in both hot and cold temperature extremes.
The best time to plant Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum is in the fall, but it can also be planted in the spring. Make sure to prepare the soil by removing any weeds or rocks. It's recommended to add a layer of mulch to keep the soil moist and prevent weed growth.
Watering Needs
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum is a drought-tolerant plant that doesn't require much watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, but reduce the amount of water during the dormant season. Be careful not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum is a low-nutrient plant that doesn't require much fertilization. If the plant looks yellowish or has stunted growth, it may need some fertilizer. Use a low-nitrogen fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much pruning. However, it can benefit from occasional deadheading to promote new growth and prevent seed production. Cut back the plant by one-third after the growing season to promote a compact and bushy shape.
Propagation of Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum, commonly referred to as the Douglas' buckwheat, can be propagated through sexual and asexual propagation methods. Sexual propagation involves the use of seeds while asexual propagation involves the use of vegetative structures like cuttings.
Sexual propagation
The seeds of Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum can be sown in pots or in seedbeds. The ideal time to sow the seeds is usually in the fall, after the dormancy period of the plant. The seeds can be mixed with sand for even distribution and to reduce the chances of fungal infections. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and keep it moist. The seeds will start to germinate in about 2-6 weeks.
Asexual propagation
Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum can also be propagated asexually through stem or root cuttings. The ideal time to propagate through stem cuttings is in late summer or early fall.
To propagate through stem cuttings, select healthy stems that are about 6-8 inches long and have no flowers. Cut the stem just below a leaf node and remove all the leaves except for the topmost leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot with a well-draining mixture of peat moss and sand. Keep the pot in a warm and humid place for about 6-8 weeks until the roots start to form.
To propagate through root cuttings, select healthy roots that are about the thickness of a pencil and cut them into 1-2 inch sections. Plant the sections in a pot with well-draining soil and keep it moist. The roots should start to sprout in about 2-3 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriogonum compositum Dougl. ex Benth. var. compositum
Eriogonum compositum is a native perennial herb, and such plants are generally pest and disease resistant. They thrive in a natural setting without any intervention; however, with human interference and cultivation, these plants may fall prey to a few pests and diseases.
Pests
Some of the common pests affecting Eriogonum compositum include:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that feed on plants' sap and weaken them. They often cluster on the plants' new growth tips, causing the leaves to curl and become yellow or deformed. To control aphids, you can spray the plants with water or use an insecticidal soap solution. Good cultural practices like maintaining a clean garden and avoiding over-fertilization can also help prevent aphid infestation.
Spider mites
Spider mites are common pests that often attack plants' undersides, causing leaf discoloration and drop. They are so tiny that you may easily miss them if you're not careful. You can control spider mites by regularly spraying the plants with water or using a miticide. Introducing beneficial insects such as ladybirds can also help control spider mites.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars feed on plants' foliage and can cause significant damage. Handpicking and disposing of the caterpillars is an effective way to control their infestation. You can also use deterrents such as row cover or garlic sprays to keep the caterpillars away.
Diseases
Eriogonum compositum may also succumb to a few diseases, such as:
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that appears as yellow or orange powdery spots on the plants' leaves. It can cause defoliation and weaken the plants if left unchecked. To control rust, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Additionally, you can apply a fungicide to prevent its spread.
Mildew
Mildew is a fungal disease that affects the plants' leaves and stems, causing powdery white or grayish spots. It can stunt the plants' growth and reduce their yield. To control mildew, spray the plants with a solution of baking soda and water or a fungicide. Good air circulation and keeping the garden clean can also help prevent mildew.
Botrytis blight
Botrytis blight is a fungal disease that attacks the plants' flowers and fruits. It can cause grayish molds to develop, which can destroy the flowers and fruits. To control botrytis blight, remove the infected flowers and fruits and dispose of them. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation to prevent this disease's spread.
Overall, good cultural practices such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning can help prevent pests and diseases from attacking Eriogonum compositum. Always monitor the plants for any signs of infestation and take prompt action to prevent their spread.
