Origin
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum (S. Stokes) Reveal & Brotherson, commonly known as Round-leaf Buckwheat, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. This species is native to western North America, as it can be found in various locations ranging from northern California to British Columbia, Nevada, and Wyoming. It primarily thrives in rocky and sandy soils in alpine and subalpine habitats.
Common Names
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum is commonly known as Round-leaf Buckwheat due to the shape of its leaves. It is also referred to as the Cushion Buckwheat because of its dense, low-growing habit.
Uses
Although there are no known medicinal benefits of Round-leaf Buckwheat, it is commonly used in landscaping to add texture and color to gardens. Moreover, the plant is an excellent source of food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Its taproot also helps with soil stabilization in a range of soil types, which is beneficial for erosion control.
General Appearance
The Round-leaf Buckwheat plant can grow up to 15 cm tall and spread up to 50 cm in width. Its leaves are arranged in a basal rosette, and they are almost circular, thick, and leathery, measuring about 3-6 cm in diameter. The inflorescence of round-leaf buckwheat is composed of pink or white flowers that bloom in the summer, forming a round or flat-topped cluster. The plant is an evergreen perennial, meaning it remains green throughout the year, and it thrives in full sun and well-drained soils.
Light conditions
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum (S. Stokes) Reveal & Brotherson requires full sun to thrive. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can withstand high heat and intense sunlight. It is not suitable for shady or partially shady areas as it requires ample sunlight to grow properly.
Temperature requirements
This plant prefers warm to hot temperatures and can withstand temperature extremes. It can thrive in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8 which means it can survive temperatures as low as -20°F (-28.9°C) to 20°F (-6.7°C). However, it prefers temperatures ranging from 60°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C).
Soil requirements
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum (S. Stokes) Reveal & Brotherson prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. It can tolerate alkaline soil but not heavy clay soils that can cause waterlogging. A pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. The soil must be slightly acidic to slightly alkaline and have good drainage. Organic content in the soil can help in retaining moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum (S. Stokes) Reveal & Brotherson, commonly known as Round-leafed Buckwheat, is a perennial plant native to North America. It grows best in dry, well-drained, and loamy soil. The plant prefers full sunlight, but it can thrive in partial shade as well. For optimum growth, the soil pH should be between 5.5 to 7.
The plant can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings. It is essential to keep the soil moist during the germination of seeds. The germination time can vary from one to four months. The stem cuttings should be taken in mid-spring and planted in sandy soil. They should be kept in moderate shade until they develop roots.
Watering Needs
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require much watering. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive on rainfall alone. However, during the hot summer months, it is best to water the plant once a week to keep the soil moist. Overwatering can be detrimental to the plant's growth, so it's crucial to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Round-leafed Buckwheat doesn't require much fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer can cause the plant to grow recklessly. It is best to use a slow-release fertilizer during the spring season. A handful of compost can also be added to the soil to provide the necessary nutrients. The plant can also benefit from a foliar spray of fish emulsion in the early spring.
Pruning
Round-leafed Buckwheat is a low-growing plant that doesn't require much pruning. However, to maintain the plant's shape and encourage healthy growth, it is best to prune it after the flowering period ends. Using pruning shears, remove the dead or damaged branches, and cut back the remaining growth to the desired size. Pruning should be done in the late fall or early winter when the plant is dormant.
Propagation methods for Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum
There are several methods for propagating Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum, including:
Seed propagation
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum can be propagated through seeds. The seeds can be sown outdoors in fall or early spring. Before sowing the seeds, you need to treat them with boiling water for a few seconds, soak them in water for 24 hours, or stratify them to break their dormancy. The germination process can take up to several months. Once germinated, the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Collect the cuttings during the plant's active growth season (spring to early summer) when the stems are still green and flexible. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a moist soil mix. Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag to create a humid environment and keep them out of direct sunlight until they root and start new growth.
Division propagation
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum can also be propagated through division. Divide the plant in early spring or fall when the plant is dormant. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots, retaining as much of the root system as possible. Plant the individual sections into their new permanent location. Ensure that the soil has good drainage as this plant does not tolerate wet soil conditions.
Layering propagation
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum can also be propagated through layering. Choose a healthy and flexible stem that is close to the ground and is suitable for bending. Bury a section of the stem into a shallow trench, leaving the tip of the stem exposed. Secure the stem in place with a u-shaped wire. After a few weeks, roots will form on the buried section of the stem. Cut the rooted stem from the parent plant and plant it in its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management of Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum (S. Stokes) Reveal & Brotherson
Eriogonum corymbosum Benth. var. orbiculatum (S. Stokes) Reveal & Brotherson, commonly known as Roundleaf Buckwheat, is a beautiful, low-growing flowering plant. While it is generally free from major pest or disease issues, it is still important for gardeners and growers to understand the common ailments that can affect this plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that may affect Roundleaf Buckwheat is Powdery Mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the foliage, and it can weaken the plant and cause stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to control humidity levels, provide adequate air circulation, and avoid over-watering. Additionally, affected plants can be treated with fungicidal sprays to control the disease.
Another fungal disease that may affect Roundleaf Buckwheat is Rust. Like Powdery Mildew, it can weaken the plant and cause it to suffer from stunted growth. Rust appears as small, yellow-orange pustules on the foliage, and it can be managed by removing infected leaves, improving air circulation, and avoiding overwatering.
Common Pests
Roundleaf Buckwheat is generally not affected by many pests, but it may occasionally be attacked by Aphids. These tiny insects suck the sap from the foliage, causing yellowing and curling of leaves and weakening of the plant. Aphids can be controlled by using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or horticultural oil spray.
Spider Mites may also occasionally attack Roundleaf Buckwheat. These tiny mites feed on the leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing of the foliage. They can be managed by increasing humidity around the plant, pruning infected foliage, and using insecticidal soaps or pesticides.
Conclusion
Managing the diseases and pests that may affect Roundleaf Buckwheat involves careful attention to cultural practices like proper watering and air circulation, and the use of chemical controls as necessary. By keeping an eye out for common diseases and pests, gardeners and growers can ensure that this beautiful plant remains healthy and vibrant.
