Eriogonum Deflexum Torr. Var. Multipedunculatum (s. Stokes) C.l. Hitchc. - >>eriogonum Watsonii

Origin and Common Names

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc., commonly known as cushion buckwheat or flat-top buckwheat, is a species of flowering plant in the family Polygonaceae. It is native to western North America, particularly in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Idaho.

General Appearance

Cushion buckwheat is a low-growing, perennial herb that forms dense mats or cushions on rocky slopes, cliffs, and dry, open areas. It typically grows up to 15-25 cm tall and spreads up to 50-80 cm wide. The plant has woody stems that are covered with silky, silvery hairs and narrow, evergreen leaves that are 1 to 3 cm long. The flowers are arranged in flat-topped clusters or cymes, each with 10-20 small, yellow or cream-colored, six-petaled blooms that appear from May to August.

Uses

Cushion buckwheat has several uses, both horticultural and medicinal. It is often used as a groundcover in rock gardens, dry borders, and wildflower meadows due to its attractive evergreen foliage and showy flowers. The plant is also suitable for xeriscaping and drought-tolerant landscaping projects. Medicinally, cushion buckwheat has been used traditionally by Native Americans to treat various ailments, including headaches, stomach problems, and skin conditions. The plant is rich in tannins and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using any medicinal plants.

Light Requirements

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. usually grows in full sun. The plants require direct sunlight for at least six hours per day to thrive. Too much shade can adversely affect their growth and development. In the wild, they mostly grow in sunny areas such as rocky slopes and ridges.

Temperature Requirements

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. is hardy to temperatures down to -20°F. The plants can withstand hot summers as well as cold winters. They are well adapted to the dry and hot conditions of their native habitats in California, Nevada, and Utah. In cultivation, they are best grown in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.

Soil Requirements

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. prefers well-draining, sandy, and rocky soils. The plants do not tolerate waterlogged or poorly-drained soils. They grow naturally in soils with low fertility and low organic matter content. However, they can benefit from occasional applications of organic fertilizer or compost to improve the soil structure and nutrients availability.

Cultivation of Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc.

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. is a species of flowering plant that is native to the western United States. To cultivate this plant in your garden, you need to keep in mind the following:

• It thrives in well-drained soil with full sunlight.
• It needs a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight per day.
• It can tolerate heat and drought, but it is recommended to provide some shade during hot afternoons.
• The plant can become susceptible to powdery mildew in high humidity, so it is recommended to avoid planting it in areas with poor air circulation.

Watering Needs of Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc.

The watering needs of Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. depend on the environmental conditions and the growth stage of the plant. Here are some guidelines:

• Water the plant deeply during growth spurts and flowering periods.
• Allow the soil to dry out between watering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot in moist soil.
• Reduce watering during the dormant season, as the plant can tolerate dry soil for an extended period.
• Use a good quality mulch to retain soil moisture during dry seasons.

Fertilization of Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc.

The Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. plant thrives in low-nutrient soil, and over-fertilization can cause harm. Guidelines for fertilizing this plant are as follows:

• Only fertilize during the growing season, once in early spring, and again in late summer.
• Use a low-nitrogen, slow-release fertilizer, and apply according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizer, which can cause lush, weak growth and reduce the number of flowers produced.
• If you provide the plant with frequent compost tea applications, you will not need to fertilize it further.

Pruning Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc.

The Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. plant requires minimal pruning, but some guidelines apply:

• You can pinch or cut the branch tips to keep the shape of the plant after flowering.
• Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as they appear.
• Prune the plant severely every few years to rejuvenate it and promote healthy growth and flowering.
• Use sharp and sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases or pests.

Propagation Methods for Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc.

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum, commonly known as California buckwheat, is a perennial shrub that grows extensively in California.

Seed Propagation:

One of the easiest and most common methods of propagating Eriogonum deflexum is through seed propagation. Collect ripe seeds from dried flower heads, usually from late summer to early fall. The seeds are then cleaned carefully to remove any debris and stored in a cool and dry place until spring planting. The seeds should be sown on the soil surface in early spring in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination.

Division:

Dividing Eriogonum deflexum through root division is another method of propagation. The best time to divide the plant is during the fall or early spring before the growing season begins. The root ball is carefully dug up, and the plant is divided into sections. It is important to ensure that each division has healthy roots and a portion of the stem. The divided plants are then transplanted into well-draining soil that matches their previous growing conditions.

Cuttings:

Another propagation method for Eriogonum deflexum is through stem cuttings. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the late spring and early summer when new growth is emerging. Cut a 4-6 inch stem from a healthy plant, and snip off all the leaves except for two or three at the top of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and cover the cutting with plastic to maintain high humidity. The cutting should root in about four to six weeks.

In conclusion, Eriogonum deflexum is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings. By following the correct propagation techniques, gardeners can grow a healthy and thriving plant in their gardens.

Disease Management

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. is a hardy plant that doesn't often succumb to diseases. However, in rare cases, it can fall prey to fungal and bacterial infections, especially in wet and humid conditions. Here are some common diseases that might affect this plant:

• Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phoma exigua. It creates brown or black spots on the leaves, which can spread and merge if not treated promptly. To manage it, you can remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also apply a fungicide containing copper or sulfur.
• Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can weaken the plant and reduce its vigor. To manage it, you can prune the affected parts and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also apply a fungicide containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate.
• Bacterial Blight: This disease is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae. It creates water-soaked spots on the leaves and stems, which turn brown and necrotic over time. To manage it, you can remove the infected parts and destroy them. You can also apply a copper-based bactericide.

Pest Management

Eriogonum deflexum Torr. var. multipedunculatum (S. Stokes) C.L. Hitchc. is also resistant to most pests, thanks to its tough foliage and bitter taste. However, some insects and animals might still find it attractive. Here are some common pests that might affect this plant:

• Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl and yellow. They also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and encourages fungal growth. To manage them, you can wash them off with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Caterpillars: These larvae of moths and butterflies can chew the leaves and create holes and notches. They can also defoliate the plant if left unchecked. To manage them, you can handpick them and squish them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a biological insecticide that targets only caterpillars.
• Deer and rabbits: These mammals can browse on the foliage and stems of the plant, especially in winter when food is scarce. To manage them, you can install physical barriers such as fences or nettings or use repellents containing urine or blood meal.