Overview
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum (Eastw.) Kearney & Peebles is a subspecies of flowering plant in the family Polygonaceae. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and is commonly known by the name Mearns' buckwheat.
Description
Mearns' buckwheat is a small, perennial shrub that typically grows to be about 2-3 feet tall and 2-4 feet wide. It has a woody base, which supports a dense cluster of stems. The leaves of the plant are small, elongated, and silvery grey, and they are covered with tiny hairs that help to reduce water loss. The flowering stems of the plant are topped with clusters of small, yellow to yellow-green flowers that are arranged in a panicle. The flowers bloom in the mid- to late summer and are small at only about 0.25 inches wide. They are followed by red or reddish-brown seeds that mature in the fall.
Range and Habitat
Mearns' buckwheat is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and California. It prefers to grow in relatively dry habitats, such as rocky slopes and desert washes, at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 6,000 feet.
Uses
Mearns' buckwheat is primarily grown for its ornamental value and is used in landscaping and restoration projects. However, some Native American tribes have used the plant for medicinal purposes. The leaves were often made into a tea to help alleviate stomach problems and the roots were used to make poultices for wounds. In addition, the plant's seeds and leaves are an important source of food for wildlife.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum grows best in full sun or partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade, but insufficient light can cause weak stem growth and elongation.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety can thrive in a wide range of temperatures. It is well adapted to arid and semi-arid climates and can withstand a high degree of temperature fluctuations. The ideal temperature range for the growth of Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum is between 65°F and 85°F.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum grows well in well-drained, sandy or rocky soils. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. The plant is adapted to poor soils with low nutrient levels and can grow well even in shallow, infertile soils. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, and overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives best in well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is drought-tolerant, and once established, requires minimal watering. It can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, or rocky soils. Plant seeds during the fall or early spring in an area where the plant will receive full sun and enough space to grow.
Watering Needs
As drought-tolerant plants, Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum requires minimal watering. During the first year after planting, water the plant regularly to help its roots establish. After establishment, water only during extended dry spells. Ensure the soil is moist before watering, as the plant grows best in well-draining soil with minimal moisture retention. Overwatering may lead to root rot, so it's essential to avoid it.
Fertilization
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum rarely requires fertilization. However, if the plant is growing in nutrient-poor soils, you can amend it with organic material or inorganic fertilizers. Avoid adding too much fertilizer as it may cause the plant to grow too fast, with weaker stems that are susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum does not need regular pruning. However, you can remove any spent flowers to encourage new blooms. You can also prune any damaged stems or branches to enhance the plant's health. The best time to prune is after the blooming season, which is usually in late summer or early fall. When pruning, it's essential to use sharp tools, sterilized with rubbing alcohol, to prevent spreading diseases.
Propagation of Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum (Eastw.) Kearney & Peebles
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum (Eastw.) Kearney & Peebles, commonly known as Mearns' buckwheat, is a perennial plant native to the southwestern United States. Propagation of this plant is achieved most commonly through seed germination, although propagation through cuttings can also be successful.
Seed Germination
Seeds of Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum should be collected in late summer or early fall and stored in a dry, cool location until planting. Prior to planting, seeds should be stratified in the refrigerator for at least four weeks to mimic the winter conditions they would experience in their natural habitat.
Once stratification is complete, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil or growing medium. The seeds should be planted at a depth of approximately twice their diameter and lightly covered with soil. Keep the soil moist but not saturated and place in a location with bright, indirect light.
Seed germination typically occurs within 14-28 days. Once the seedlings have grown to a sufficient size, they can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cutting is also possible with Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum. Cuttings should be taken from new growth on the plant in the spring or early summer.
The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and be approximately 3-4 inches in length. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Place the cutting in a well-draining soil or growing medium and keep the soil moist but not saturated. Place the cutting in a bright, indirect light location. Root development should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Once the cutting has developed a healthy root system, it can be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum
Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum, commonly known as Mearn's buckwheat, is a beautiful plant native to the United States. Although generally disease and pest-free, certain factors can impact the plant's health and appearance. In this section, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Eriogonum mearnsii is susceptible to several fungal diseases, including stem rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum and leaf spot caused by Phoma exigua. Stem rot can cause wilting, yellowing, and browning of the plant's leaves, and in severe cases, it can kill the plant. Leaf spot appears as small brownish spots on the leaves, which can coalesce to form larger patches and eventually cause the leaves to drop.
To manage these diseases, it's essential to maintain proper cultural practices, such as watering the plant in the morning to allow sufficient time for the leaves to dry, ensuring good air circulation, and avoiding overhead watering. Sanitation is also critical, and you should remove any infected debris from the plant and surrounding soil. Fungicides may be necessary in severe cases, and you should always follow the label instructions carefully.
Common Pests
Eriogonum mearnsii is relatively pest-resistant, although some insects can affect the plant's health. Some common pests that might infest the Mearn's buckwheat are aphids, spider mites, and thrips. Aphids can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves and secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants. Spider mites can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves and form webbing on the plant's surface. Thrips also cause stippling of the leaves and can deform the flowers.
The best way to manage these pests is to monitor the plant regularly and identify the pest species correctly. You can use several methods to control them, including spraying the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, and using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Always follow the label instructions and be careful not to harm beneficial insects.
By practicing proper cultural practices, identifying and managing diseases and pests promptly, and choosing the correct control method, you can keep your Eriogonum mearnsii Parry var. pulchrum healthy and beautiful.
