Origin and Common Names
Eriogonum dendroideum (Nutt.) S. Stokes var. foliosum (Nutt.) M.E. Jones, commonly known as the tree or shrub buckwheat, is a perennial plant species that is native to the western United States. It is found mainly in California, Nevada, and Arizona, but can also be found in southern Oregon and northern Baja California in Mexico.
General Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 2 to 4 feet and spreads to a width of 3 to 6 feet. It has a dense, shrub-like appearance, with multiple woody stems that are reddish-brown in color and are covered with small, dark green leaves that retain moisture well. The leaves are oval in shape and range in size from 0.25 to 1 inch long.
In the late spring and early summer, the tree or shrub buckwheat produces clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers that are approximately 0.25 inches in diameter. The flowers are held on branching stems that rise above the foliage, making them highly visible. The plant's fruit is a small, dark brown achene that is roughly triangular in shape and less than 0.25 inches long.
Uses
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is used in landscaping for its drought tolerance and low-maintenance requirements. It also serves as a habitat and food source for various birds, bees, and butterflies.
Historically, Native Americans used the plant to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach problems, toothaches, and headaches. They also used the plant to make a tea that was said to promote good health and longevity.
The plant is not typically used for culinary purposes, but has been used as an alternative to regular wheat flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
Growth Conditions for Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum, commonly known as the California mountain buckwheat, is a perennial subshrub that is native to the Western United States. It is known for its delicate pink to white flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. To ensure proper growth and development, this plant requires specific environmental conditions, as follows:
Light Requirements
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum prefers full sun exposure. Young plants require some shade during their first year of growth, but will thrive under full sun exposure thereafter. In areas with hot summers, the plant will benefit from some afternoon shade to protect the foliage from sunburn.
Temperature Requirements
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is adapted to the Mediterranean climate, but it can withstand extreme temperatures and drought in arid zones. It grows best in moderate temperatures between 65°F to 85°F during the day and 40°F to 60°F at night. Temperatures above 90°F will cause the foliage to yellow and wilt.
Soil Requirements
The California mountain buckwheat prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level, ranging between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can grow in sandy or rocky soils, but it thrives best in loamy soils that retain moisture. It can also tolerate saline soils, making it suitable for coastal regions.
Irrigation Requirements
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. In general, it only needs water once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilizer Requirements
The California mountain buckwheat prefers nutrient-poor soil and does not require fertilizer. However, it will benefit from a light application of organic fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Cultivation
Eriogonum dendroideum (Nutt.) S. Stokes var. foliosum (Nutt.) M.E. Jones, commonly known as the California buckwheat, is a shrub that is native to California. It can be grown in a variety of soils, including sand, loam, and clay. Plant the shrub in a sunny location. It is important to note that the California buckwheat may grow up to 4 feet tall and 6 feet wide, so adequate space must be provided. Planting the shrub in a group also enhances its beauty.
Watering Needs
The California buckwheat is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established. Soil water content sensors can be used to determine if the soil is dry enough to require watering. Water the shrub deeply and infrequently, aiming for the roots to get at least 1 inch of water per week. If the area experiences a period of drought, make sure to increase the frequency of watering.
Fertilization
Fertilizers are not necessary for the California buckwheat. In fact, too much fertilizer can harm the plant. A small amount of slow-release fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, can be applied once a year in the early spring as a general guideline. A soil nutrient test can determine whether the fertilizer is necessary and, if so, which nutrients are lacking in the soil.
Pruning
Pruning the California buckwheat should be done cautiously. The shrub should be pruned just after it blooms in late summer or early fall. To encourage fuller growth, remove the top few inches of new growth on the tips of the branches. When pruning, it is important to preserve the natural shape of the shrub as much as possible, as excess pruning can cause it to develop a droopy or unnatural appearance.
Propagation of Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is a shrub native to dry areas of western North America. It is commonly known as the California buckwheat and is a popular choice for landscaping due to its drought-tolerant and low-maintenance nature.
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is through seed propagation. The shrub produces small, triangular seeds that can be collected and sown in the fall. Seeds can be lightly covered with soil, and the container should be placed in an area with ample sunlight. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not wet until the seeds germinate, which typically takes four to six weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Another popular propagation method for Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is through cuttings. The stems of the shrub are semi-hardwood and can quickly root in well-draining soil. Cuttings are typically taken in early spring or late summer from the current year's growth. Each cutting should have at least one leaf node and be around four inches long. Remove any leaves from the bottom of the cutting and place it in a pot filled with sterile rooting mix. Cover the pot with plastic to create a greenhouse-like environment and keep the soil moist until the cutting roots, which typically takes three to four weeks.
Laying Propagation
For a more natural propagation method, Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum can be propagated by layering. The shrub's branches can be bent down and covered with soil, allowing the plant to establish roots while still attached to the parent plant. When the new plant has established roots, it can be carefully removed from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location. This method is typically done in early spring or late fall when the plant is dormant.
Disease Management
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is known for its tolerance to various environmental and soil conditions, which lowers its susceptibility to disease. However, some common diseases that may affect this plant include root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf rust. Effective disease management measures include proper watering and soil drainage, maintaining good air circulation, and using disease-resistant cultivars.
Root rot is the most common disease that affects Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum. It is caused by waterlogged soil that limits the oxygen supply to the roots, leading to root decay. To manage this disease, ensure that you plant the plant in well-drained soil, remove any diseased or dead plant material, and avoid over-watering.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease characterized by white powdery spots that appear on the leaves. It can be managed by keeping the plant foliage dry by watering from below and ensuring that the plant has good air circulation.
Leaf rust is another fungal disease that causes rust-colored spots on the plant's leaves. This disease can be managed by using disease-resistant cultivars and removing any infected plant material regularly.
Pest Management
Eriogonum dendroideum var. foliosum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common pests that can affect the plant include spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. To manage pest infestations, you should regularly monitor the plant, use insecticidal soaps, and maintain good plant hygiene.
Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that feed on the plant's sap, leading to yellowing and browning of the leaves. To manage this pest, use a forceful spray of water on the affected plant parts, use insecticidal soaps, and regularly remove any infested plant material.
Thrips are small insects that feed on the plant's stems and leaves, causing discolored patches on the foliage. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil, maintain good plant hygiene, and remove any infected plant parts.
Mealybugs are white or gray pests that suck the sap out of the plant's tissues and produce a white, cottony substance on the leaves. To manage this pest, remove any infested plant parts, use insecticidal soaps or neem oil, and maintain good hygiene around the plant.
