Origin
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum (Torr. & Gray) Reveal, also known as slender buckwheat or slenderleaf buckwheat, is a plant species that is native to the western United States. It can be found in different states, including California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico.
Common Names
Slender buckwheat is the most common name for Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum. In addition, this plant species has other common names. It is also referred to as slender-leaf buckwheat, smallflower desert buckwheat, and smallflower wild buckwheat.
Uses
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum has various uses. Native Americans used this plant for medicinal purposes. They made a tea from the leaves and stems, which they used to treat stomach aches, rheumatism, and fever. Today, the plant is used to control soil erosion and as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes. It is also a source of food for butterflies and other pollinators.
General Appearance
Slender buckwheat is a perennial herb that grows up to 1 foot tall and has a spread of 1 to 2 feet. The leaves are basal and have a slender shape that tapers to a point. The flowers are small, white, and bloom in clusters that are atop long stems. It usually blooms from May to August. The seeds are black and enclosed in a small, hard, and shiny envelope.
Light Conditions
Eriogonum microthecum var. foliosum prefers full sun to partial shade, so a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day is ideal. The plant may not flower as well if it is grown in the shade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the western United States and is adapted to hot, dry conditions. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum microthecum var. foliosum prefers well-drained soils that are low in organic matter. The plant is adapted to rocky, sandy, or gravelly soils that are mildly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5. The plant's root system is shallow, so the soil should be moisture-retentive but not waterlogged.
Cultivation methods
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum (Torr. & Gray) Reveal, commonly known as Shasta Buckwheat, is a perennial plant that is native to the Western United States. This plant grows well in full sun and requires well-drained soil. The soil should be slightly alkaline, with a pH between 7.0 and 8.5. Start by choosing a site that has good drainage. Till the soil to a depth of 8 -10 inches and break up any clods. Add organic matter to the soil if it is heavy clay or sandy, ensuring it is well-distributed.
Plant Shasta Buckwheat in early spring, after any chance of frost has passed. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and set the plant into the hole. Backfill the hole with soil and tamp it down to remove any air pockets. Water the newly planted Shasta Buckwheat well.
Watering Needs
Shasta Buckwheat requires regular watering to establish a root system. Water the plant deeply once or twice per week during the first growing season. Once the Shasta Buckwheat plants are established, they can tolerate periods of drought. However, during prolonged dry periods, it is best to water the plants deeply every two weeks.
Be cautious not to overwater the Shasta Buckwheat plant, as it is susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. Make sure the soil has good drainage.
Fertilization
Shasta Buckwheat generally does not require fertilization if it is grown in fertile soil. However, it will benefit from a balanced fertilizer application in early spring. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 8-8-8, scattered throughout the root zone. Do not over-fertilize the Shasta Buckwheat plant, as it can weaken the stems and suckers, leading to stunted growth.
Pruning
Shasta Buckwheat generally does not require pruning, but sometimes it can develop a woody base, making it difficult to manage its size and shape. To control the size and shape of the plant, it is best to prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Remove all dead and diseased wood, pruning any branches that are encroaching on other plants.
To maintain a tidy appearance, it is a good practice to deadhead the spent flowers from the Shasta Buckwheat plant periodically. Deadheading will encourage the plant to direct its energy into growing new buds and blooms rather than developing seeds.
Propagation of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum (Torr. & Gray) Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum (Torr. & Gray) Reveal, also known as Shasta buckwheat or Shasta sulfur flower, is a California native plant that can be propagated through several methods. These propagation methods include seeds, stem cutting, and division.
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method for propagating Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in the fall or winter or started indoors in the spring. The seeds require warm temperatures and moderate moisture to germinate. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Stem Cuttings
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting of 3-4 inches from the parent plant in the spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and provide consistent moisture until the cutting has established roots. Once the cutting is established, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division
Propagation through division involves separating the parent plant into multiple sections. This method is best done in the fall or winter when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into sections using a sharp knife or spade. Each section should have enough roots and foliage to sustain itself. Replant each section in well-draining soil and provide consistent moisture until the sections are established.
Disease Management
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum (Torr. & Gray) Reveal is susceptible to various diseases that can severely affect its growth and overall health. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect this plant:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant. It can be prevented by avoiding overwatering, providing good soil drainage, and using disease-free planting materials.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can be controlled by applying fungicides as per the label instructions.
- Bacterial blight: This disease is caused by a bacterium that attacks the foliage of the plant. It can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
- Viral infections: Viruses can cause several symptoms such as yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and lower yields. Unfortunately, there are no cures for viral infections, and diseased plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spreading.
Pest Management
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum (Torr. & Gray) Reveal is also vulnerable to various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some of the common pests that might affect this plant:
- Aphids: These tiny pests suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to curl and yellow. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause significant damage by sucking the sap from the undersides of the leaves. Infested plants can be washed with a strong stream of water or treated with insecticides.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on the stems at or below the ground and can cut the plant off at the soil level. They can be prevented by using collars or baits around the plants.
- Leafhoppers: These pests cause stippling and yellowing of the leaves and can also transmit plant diseases. They can be controlled by treating the plant with insecticides.
Regular monitoring of the plant and using appropriate disease and pest management strategies can ensure the proper growth and development of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. foliosum (Torr. & Gray) Reveal, making it a healthy and attractive addition to any garden or landscape.
