Origin
Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense (S. Stokes) Munz ex Reveal is a flowering plant that belongs to the Buckwheat family. This plant is native to the United States, specifically found in California, Nevada, and Arizona.
Common Names
The common names of Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense (S. Stokes) Munz ex Reveal include Mono Basin Buckwheat and Kearney's buckwheat.
Uses
This plant species is valued for its ornamental and ecological importance. It is commonly used in gardens and landscaping due to its delicate and attractive blooms. Its leaves and seeds are also known to have medicinal properties and are used in herbal medicine to treat gastrointestinal problems and other ailments.
General Appearance
Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense (S. Stokes) Munz ex Reveal is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 12 inches tall with a compact, rounded shape. The plant has silver-gray leaves that are oblong or spoon-shaped and a mass of tiny, creamy-white flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, which can further attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The stalk of the clusters of flowerheads sprawl above the leaves.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense typically grows in areas with plenty of sunlight. It requires direct or partial sun for at least 6 hours a day to thrive. It is not recommended to grow this plant in areas with excessive shade as it can weaken growth and limit the plant's ability to produce flowers.
Soil Requirements
This plant grows best in well-draining soil. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.0. The plant does not tolerate heavy, clay soils as they can hold too much moisture, which can harm the roots. Therefore, soils that provide good drainage are ideal for Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a dry and warm environment. It typically grows in regions with hot summers and cold winters. The ideal temperature range for Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense growth is between 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F). However, it can also tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F).
Cultivation methods
Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense (S. Stokes) Munz ex Reveal, commonly known as Kearney buckwheat, is a drought-tolerant plant species native to the Mono Basin of eastern California. This plant is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to create a low-maintenance, water-wise landscape. Kearney buckwheat is relatively easy to grow and thrives in hot, dry, and arid climates, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It benefits from supplemental irrigation while becoming established but can survive extended periods without water once matured.
Watering needs
Kearney buckwheat is a drought-tolerant plant species, and overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The plant needs moderate watering while becoming established, but once matured, it can go extended periods without water. Water the plant deeply every two to three weeks in the summer and reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant. Ensure the soil is dry before the next watering cycle to avoid waterlogging the roots.
Fertilization
Kearney buckwheat is a low-maintenance plant, and regular fertilization is not necessary. The plant doesn't require much in the way of nutrients, but it does benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall. Always follow the package instructions carefully while applying the fertilizer and avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to poor growth and flowering.
Pruning
Kearney buckwheat requires minimal pruning, and it's typically not necessary. However, gardeners can remove the old flower heads after the plant has finished flowering to promote fresh growth and encourage repeat bloom. Pruning the stem tips in late winter can also help promote fuller growth and encourage a bushier plant. Always use sterilized pruning shears to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense (S. Stokes) Munz ex Reveal
Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense (S. Stokes) Munz ex Reveal, commonly known as the Mono Buckwheat, can be propagated through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through seeds:
The Mono Buckwheat can be propagated through seeds, which are readily available. The seeds can be collected and stored in a cool and dry place until planting time. They can be directly sown into the ground in early spring, and the area should be kept moist until germination. It can take up to three weeks for the seeds to germinate, and they must be kept weed-free and watered regularly.
Propagation through cuttings:
Propagation through stem cuttings is another viable option for propagating the Mono Buckwheat. Cuttings should be taken in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long, with the bottom few leaves removed. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in soil or placed in water until roots begin to form. Once rooting has taken place, the cuttings can be transplanted into pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation through division:
Eriogonum kearneyi Tidestrom ssp. monoense can be divided in the spring when the plant is actively growing. The root ball should be carefully dug up and divided into sections, and each section should have some leaves and roots. The divided sections can be replanted in their new location and kept moist until established.
