Description of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal is a perennial plant that is native to North America, specifically found in the Pacific Northwest of United States. This plant is commonly known as Stonecrop Buckwheat or Shasta Buckwheat.
General Appearance of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal is a compact, low-growing shrub that typically grows up to 6 to 12 inches tall and a spread of up to 2 to 3 feet. The plant has woolly, white-silvery leaves that are evergreen, and the stem is woody and covered with the same white-silvery hairs. The flowers are small and white and bloom from June to August.
Uses of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal is widely used for its ornamental value as it is drought-tolerant, adaptable to a variety of soil types, and requires low maintenance. The plant is a great addition to rock gardens, borders, and bank covers. Additionally, the plant is known to have medicinal properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments by indigenous communities.
In conclusion, Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal is a stunning, evergreen, and low-maintenance shrub that provides ornamental value while also serving as a medicinal plant.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal typically requires full sun to partial shade to grow successfully. It can tolerate some shade, but growth and flower production may be reduced.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is found in areas with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by dry summers and rainy winters. It can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C (14°F) and up to 40°C (104°F).
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal prefers well-drained soils, with a pH range between 6.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, heavy clay soils should be amended to improve drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal can be grown in full sun or partial shade. It prefers dry, rocky or sandy soil with good drainage. The plant is tolerant of drought, heat, and wind and is suitable for xeriscapes. It can be propagated by seed or division of mature plants.
Watering Needs of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal requires infrequent watering. It is important to allow the soil to dry out completely between watering as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Watering can be reduced during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal does not require regular fertilization. The use of organic, slow-release fertilizers can provide a boost during the growing season. Excessive fertilization can lead to weak growth and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal does not require regular pruning. Dead or damaged stems can be removed during the growing season. The plant can also be pruned back in the fall to encourage new growth in the spring. Avoid pruning in the winter as this can damage the plant during dormancy.
Propagation of Eriogonum microthecum var. lapidicola
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal, commonly known as rock buckwheat, is a low-growing perennial plant that is native to the western United States.
Propagation of Eriogonum microthecum var. lapidicola can be achieved through several methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown in pots or trays. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pots or trays should be placed in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Division
Eriogonum microthecum var. lapidicola can also be propagated by division. This method involves separating clumps of plants into smaller sections and replanting them in a new location. Division should be done in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively growing.
Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from young, healthy shoots and rooted in pots or trays. The cuttings should be taken in the spring or early summer and should be around 3-4 inches in length. They should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they root.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to keep the new plants well-watered and protected from direct sunlight until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal is a drought-tolerant and low-maintenance plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, certain environmental factors or cultural practices may increase the susceptibility of the plant to problems. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them:
Pests:
Aphids: Aphids are small soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, stems, and flowers of plants. They cause distorted growth and yellowing of foliage. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introducing natural predators like ladybirds and lacewings.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing the foliage to become stippled and yellowish. You can manage spider mites by increasing the humidity around the plant, spraying with water, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introducing natural predators like predatory mites or thrips.
Snails and slugs: Snails and slugs are gastropod mollusks that feed on the leaves and flowers of plants, leaving large holes or chewed areas. You can prevent snail and slug damage by handpicking the pests or using baits or traps. Applying copper-based repellents around the plants may also deter them.
Diseases:
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of plants, leading to wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. You can prevent root rot by ensuring the plant has well-draining soil and not overwatering or allowing the plant to sit in water for prolonged periods. Applying a fungicide may help control the disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of plants, producing a white powdery growth. It can cause distorted growth and reduced flowering. You can manage powdery mildew by improving air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, removing and destroying infected plant parts, and applying a fungicide.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal or bacterial disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of plants. The spots may enlarge and merge, causing defoliation and weakening of the plant. You can prevent leaf spot by avoiding overhead watering, providing adequate spacing between plants, removing and destroying infected plant parts, and applying a fungicide.
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. lapidicola Reveal can thrive with minimal maintenance if suitable cultural practices such as proper watering, adequate sunlight, and regular grooming is followed. Monitoring and identifying the problems early on can help in managing them effectively without causing much damage to the plant.
