Origin and Common Names
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes, commonly known as curled leaf buckwheat, is a shrub that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It is native to North America, specifically in the western regions of the United States such as California, Nevada, and Arizona. It can also be found in the Mexican states of Baja California and Sonora.Appearance
The curled leaf buckwheat has an intricate appearance with unique features that make it easily identifiable. The shrub grows up to 1 to 2 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide, with white to cream-colored flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowerheads have a herbaceous scent and are relatively small, measuring around 3 to 6 mm in diameter. One of the most noticeable features of the curled leaf buckwheat is its leaves, which are typically green-gray and curled at the tip. The leaves range from 2 to 4 cm in length and are arranged in a basal rosette. The leaves are also densely covered with hairs, which help to protect the plant from herbivores and retain moisture.Uses
Several Native American tribes, such as the Cahuilla and the Kumeyaay, used Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum for medicinal purposes. The roots were used to make a tea that was believed to treat headaches and other pains in the body. The leaves were also used to make poultices that were applied to wounds to prevent infection. Today, Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum is primarily used for its ornamental and ecological values. It is an attractive plant that is often used in xeriscape landscaping due to its tolerance for drought and low water conditions. Additionally, the plant serves as an important source of nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.Light requirements
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes prefers full sun to partial shade. In regions with more intense sun, shade from the hottest part of the day is believed to be important to prevent plant stress. However, too much shade can compromise the plant's growth and flowering.
Temperature requirements
This plant is native to western North America and thrives in areas with Mediterranean-type climates. It prefers mild temperatures ranging between 55-75°F (13-24°C) during its growing season, which typically occurs in the spring and summer months.
Soil requirements
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of soil types. It is often found growing in rocky, gravelly, or sandy soils. However, it is important that the soil contains sufficient organic matter to help retain moisture and nutrients. Soil pH can range from neutral to slightly alkaline (6.5-8.0).
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes is a low-maintenance plant that can adapt to a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils. This plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand hot temperature conditions. You can propagate Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes through seeds, cuttings, or dividing the root ball. Plant the seeds or cuttings in the early spring, and space them six to twelve inches apart.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering the Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes plant, less is more. This plant is drought-tolerant and only requires watering once or twice a month in the growing season. However, be careful not to over-water the plant, as this can lead to root rot. In the winter months, the plant is dormant and does not require water.
Fertilization
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes does not require regular fertilization. However, if you want to promote faster growth and blooming, you can use a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring. Apply the fertilizer sparingly, following the manufacturer's directions.
Pruning
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes does not require regular pruning. However, you may want to prune the plant to shape it during the growing season. Prune the plant lightly, removing the damaged or dead branches. If you want to propagate the plant, you can do so by taking cuttings of the stem in the early spring.
Propagation of Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes, commonly known as California Buckwheat, is a hardy and drought-tolerant shrub native to California.
Propagation Methods
Seeds: The propagation of Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes is best done by seed. The seeds can be harvested from the plant in the late summer or early fall and sown in the following spring. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in the fall after the first rains or started indoors in the early spring to be planted outdoors after the last frost.
Cuttings: Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes can also be propagated by cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the early summer and treated with rooting hormone before being placed in a suitable medium. The cuttings should be kept moist and out of direct sunlight until roots have formed.
Division: Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes can be propagated by division, but it is not commonly done due to the plant's taproot. It is best to propagate by seed or cuttings for this plant.
Disease Management
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes is relatively disease-resistant, but it is still susceptible to fungal and bacterial infections. The most common diseases that affect this plant include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, the affected leaves should be removed and disposed of properly. Fungicides like neem oil and sulfur can also be used as a preventative measure.
Leaf spot is another fungal disease that results in brown or black spots on the leaves. The affected leaves should be removed as soon as possible, and the plant should be treated with a fungicide spray containing copper or sulfur.
Root rot is a bacterial infection that causes the roots to rot and the plant to decline. It is usually caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering and to provide well-draining soil for the plant. Fungicides can be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes is also relatively pest-resistant, but it can be affected by certain pests such as spider mites, aphids, and thrips.
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and dry up. To manage spider mites, a strong stream of water can be used to wash off the pests. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control the infestation.
Aphids are tiny green or black insects that also suck the sap from the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Thrips are tiny insects that cause the leaves to curl and turn brown or black. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil, or by introducing natural predators like the lacewing insect.
It is important to regularly monitor and inspect the Eriogonum fasciculatum Benth. var. revolutum (Goodding) S. Stokes plant for any signs of disease or pest infestations in order to manage them effectively.
