Overview of Eriogonum Glandulosum
Eriogonum glandulosum (Nutt.) Nutt. ex Benth. is a flowering plant found in the western regions of North America, specifically in California, Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, and Utah. This plant belongs to the Polygonaceae, or buckwheat family, and is commonly known as the sticky wild buckwheat due to its glandular hairs that give it a tacky feel.
Appearance of Eriogonum Glandulosum
Eriogonum glandulosum has a rounded or compact shape that grows up to 1 meter tall by 1 meter wide. The leaves are small and are oblong in shape, about 3 to 6 centimeters long and 1 to 2 centimeters wide, with hairy or glandular surfaces. The flowers of the plant are small and found at the end of branching stems, forming a dense cluster. The flowers can range from white to yellow-green in color, blooming from June to September.
Uses of Eriogonum Glandulosum
The Eriogonum glandulosum plant has many traditional medicinal uses. Indigenous tribes in North America use it as a remedy for treating diarrhea, stomach cramps, and dysentery. The plant contains flavonoids, essential oils, and tannins that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The Navajo tribe uses this plant as a natural laxative, while the Paiute tribe applies its crushed leaves to treat burns and wounds.
Eriogonum glandulosum has ecotoxicological uses and has been found to be a bioindicator of mercury contamination in rivers and stream environments. As a plant that tolerates harsh environmental conditions, E. glandulosum can be utilized in the revegetation of disturbed areas.
Additionally, this plant can be utilized in drought-tolerant landscaping as it is drought and heat-resistant, low maintenance, and attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Growth Conditions for Eriogonum Glandulosum
Eriogonum glandulosum is a native plant species that can be found growing in rocky areas, dry slopes, and open woodlands throughout the western United States.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers full sun exposure and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and bloom properly. Shaded environments can lead to elongated stems and reduced flowering.
Soil Requirements
The plant adapts well to different types of well-drained soils, including loamy, sandy, or gravelly soils. However, the soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant cannot tolerate heavy, clay, wet, or compacted soils that can lead to root rot and poor growth rates.
Water Requirements
Eriogonum glandulosum is drought-tolerant, and excessive watering can lead to root rot and waterlogging. The plant requires moderate watering only during the growing season and needs good drainage to prevent waterlogging. In areas with high rainfall, the plant often grows in rocky, well-drained soils or near rocky outcrops.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is typically found in areas with average temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and it can withstand cold temperatures down to 0 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the plant cannot tolerate extreme heat or high humidity conditions. During the winter months, the plant goes dormant and needs protection from frost and snow.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum glandulosum (Nutt.) Nutt. ex Benth., commonly known as the Shaggy-haired Buckwheat, is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate. It is a perennial plant that is best grown in a location that receives full sunlight, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly alkaline in nature. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in different soil types.
Watering Needs
Eriogonum glandulosum does not need too much water. It is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods of dryness. When watering the plant, it is best to water it deeply and infrequently. The soil should be allowed to dry out completely in between waterings, but it should not be allowed to become completely dry.
Fertilization
Eriogonum glandulosum does not require much fertilization. However, the plant can benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the early spring. A slow-release granular fertilizer that is low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium is recommended. Too much nitrogen can cause the plant to produce too much foliage and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Eriogonum glandulosum does not require much pruning. However, the plant can be pruned to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and stimulate growth. The plant can be pruned in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. It is best to use a sharp and clean pruning tool to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Eriogonum glandulosum (Nutt.) Nutt. ex Benth.
Eriogonum glandulosum, also known as walnut-leaved eriogonum, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the buckwheat family. This native species is found throughout western North America and is commonly known for its small yellow flowers and large basal leaves. Eriogonum glandulosum has different propagation techniques that can be used to grow and propagate this plant.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Eriogonum glandulosum is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant can be collected when the seed heads turn brown and can be stored in a cool, dry place. Before planting, the seeds should be treated with sulfuric acid or stratified by placing them in the refrigerator for several weeks to break their dormancy. Once the seeds are ready to be planted, they can be sown directly in the garden in the fall or early spring.
Cuttings Propagation
Eriogonum glandulosum can also be propagated through the use of cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring when the plant starts to grow new leaves. The cuttings should be about six inches long and should be taken from the stem of the plant. The leaves on the bottom of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a container with moistened potting soil. The container should be covered with a plastic bag and kept in a bright area, but not in direct sunlight. The cuttings should root in about four to six weeks,
Division Propagation
Eriogonum glandulosum can also be propagated through division, but it is not recommended. The plant has a taproot that can make division difficult, and the plant's success rate is low. If division is necessary, it should be done in the fall, and the new plants should be planted in full sun.
Propagation of Eriogonum glandulosum is an easy and rewarding process. By using the right propagation technique, the plant can be propagated easily and in a short period of time.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriogonum glandulosum (Nutt.) Nutt. ex Benth.
Eriogonum glandulosum is a native plant species in the western United States. It is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant, but it can still be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some of the common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Crown Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots and lower stems of the plant. The affected area turns brown, and the plant may wilt or die. To manage this disease, make sure to plant the Eriogonum glandulosum in well-drained soil. Avoid over-watering and over-fertilizing. Remove and destroy any infected plants and plant debris.
Powdery Mildew: This disease appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the Eriogonum glandulosum. The leaves may become distorted and may fall prematurely. To manage this disease, spray the affected plant with a fungicide. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
Pests
Spider Mites: These tiny spiders appear as red or brown dots on the underside of the leaves of the plant. They suck out the plant's sap, which causes yellowing and wilting. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove the mites.
Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. They also attract ants, which can protect them from predators. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. You can also introduce predatory insects like ladybugs or lacewings to the area to feed on the aphids.
By managing these diseases and pests, you can help keep your Eriogonum glandulosum healthy and thriving.
