Origin
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven, commonly known as St. Catherine's lace, is a subspecies of Eriogonum giganteum, which is native to California, specifically on the Channel Islands.
Common Names
Aside from St. Catherine's lace, Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum is also known by other common names such as Catalina island buckwheat, island buckwheat, and giant wild buckwheat.
Uses
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum has several uses, including its ornamental value in gardens and landscaping. The plant's large, striking flowers in white or pink hues make it an attractive addition to any outdoor space. It is also used in habitat restoration and as a food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
General Appearance
St. Catherine's lace is a perennial shrub that typically grows from 3 to 6 feet tall. It is characterized by its large, dense clusters of flowers, which bloom from June to September. The flowers are made up of small, white or pinkish-white flowers clustered together to form a rounded head. The leaves of the plant are small and green, while its stems are woody and covered in a thick layer of fine hair. Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum prefers full sun exposure and well-drained soil.
Light Requirements:
Eriogonum giganteum ssp. formosum requires full sunlight exposure throughout the day. This plant thrives in hot, dry conditions and requires direct sunlight to produce enough energy for growth. Insufficient light can result in stunted growth, reduced flowering, and an overall unhealthy plant.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant is native to California, where it generally grows in coastal areas. It is accustomed to mild temperatures, with an average daytime temperature range of 60-75°F. Eriogonum giganteum ssp. formosum can tolerate higher temperatures but may become stressed and suffer heat-related damage in areas with long periods of intense heat or heatwaves.
Soil Requirements:
Eriogonum giganteum ssp. formosum thrives in well-draining, sandy soils with low nutrients. It can tolerate slightly acidic and alkaline soils but prefers neutral pH. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in soil with low water retention capacity. However, it prefers regular watering during the growth season for optimal growth and flowering.
Cultivation
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven, commonly known as Saint Catherine’s lace, is a native plant of southern California. It is a hardy perennial that can thrive in a wide range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam. It prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. This plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or divisions.
Watering
During the growing season, Saint Catherine’s lace requires moderate watering. It is best to water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases, so it is important to water the plant judiciously. In the fall and winter months, it is best to reduce the frequency of watering as the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Fertilization
Saint Catherine’s lace does not require frequent fertilization, but a light application of controlled-release fertilizer can help promote growth and flowering. Apply the fertilizer in early spring, just before the growing season begins. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can discourage flowering and promote leafy growth. Instead, use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
Pruning Saint Catherine’s lace is not necessary, but it can help keep the plant healthy and looking tidy. Deadheading the spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. The plant can also be pruned in early spring to promote fuller growth and create a more compact shape. When pruning, use sharp, clean shears and sterilize them between cuts to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven, commonly known as St. Catherine's lace, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. This plant is native to California and is commonly found in the Santa Monica Mountains. The plant is a perennial and can grow up to 4 feet tall. The leaves of the plant are silver-gray, and the flowers are white.
Propagation Methods
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven can be propagated using various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seeds
Propagation of Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven can be done using seeds. The seeds can be harvested from the plant when they are mature, which is typically in the fall. Once harvested, the seed can be stored in a cool, dry place for later use. Before planting, the seed should be scarified to promote germination. Sowing the seeds in late winter or early spring in well-drained soil and keeping them moist will result in healthy seedlings.
Cuttings
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven can be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from new growth and should be about 4-6 inches long. Cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist, and it should take root within a few weeks.
Division
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum (Brandeg.) Raven can be propagated through division. This method is best used on older plants. In the spring, the plant can be lifted from the ground, and the root system can be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have healthy roots and shoots. The sections can be planted individually in well-drained soil and kept moist until they are settled and actively growing.
Disease Management
Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases that can impact the health and appearance of the plant. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease results in a powdery white coating on the leaves, which can lead to leaf drop and stunted growth. Management of powdery mildew involves keeping the plants well-aerated and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicidal sprays may also be used for severe infections.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves. The spots may be yellow, brown, or black, and can cause the leaves to yellow and fall off. Management of leaf spot involves removing infected plant material and avoiding overhead watering.
- Crown Rot: Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of the plant, causing the leaves to yellow and wilt. The infected plant material should be removed, and the soil surrounding the plant should be treated with a fungicide.
- Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight causes a sudden wilting of the plant and brown lesions on the leaves. The infected plant material should be removed, and the plant should be treated with a bactericide.
Pest Management
The plant Eriogonum giganteum S. Wats. ssp. formosum is relatively resistant to pests; however, some common pests that can affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and curl. Management of aphids involves removing the insects from the plant, either manually or with a strong stream of water. Insecticidal soap may also be used for severe infestations.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that create fine webbing over the plant and cause leaves to yellow and drop. Management of spider mites involves keeping the plant well-misted and removing any affected plant material. Insecticidal soap may also be used for severe infestations.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny, elongated insects that can cause distortion of the plant leaves and flowers. Management of thrips involves removing any affected plant material and using a systemic insecticide if the infestation is severe.
