Origin
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes, commonly known as MacDougal's buckwheat, is a perennial plant species belonging to the family Polygonaceae. It is native to North America, specifically found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Common Names
MacDougal's buckwheat is also commonly referred to as MacDougal's wild buckwheat or dwarf buckwheat.
Uses
The plant's leaves and seeds were traditionally used for medicinal purposes such as treating fever and diarrhea. MacDougal's buckwheat is also a valuable plant for wildlife as it provides a source of food for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, as well as for herbivores such as deer and elk.
General Appearance
MacDougal's buckwheat is a small, low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 6 to 10 inches. It has a woody base and numerous small, narrow, gray-green leaves that grow in tight clusters. The plant produces delicate clusters of white or cream-colored flowers that bloom from May to October, attracting bees and other pollinators. The plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained, low-nutrient soils, making it well-suited to desert and rocky habitats.
Light requirements
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes typically grows in full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may cause the plant to grow weak and spindly.
Temperature requirements
This plant is commonly found in western North America, where it experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. However, it is generally considered a warm-season plant and grows best in temperatures ranging from 55-65°F (12-18°C) during the growing season. Temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can cause stress to the plant and reduce growth.
Soil requirements
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to alkaline pH between 6.5-8.0. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, from sandy to loamy, as long as the soil is well-drained. In areas with heavy clay soils, it is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter to improve drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes is native to southwestern United States and requires lots of sunlight to grow. It thrives in well-drained, sandy soil, although it can grow in clay soils as well. The plant can be propagated through cuttings or seeds. It's recommended that seeds be sowed directly in the soil in the spring or fall.
Watering Needs
While Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes prefers dry conditions, it still needs moisture to grow. During the first growing season, the plant should be watered regularly, about once a week, until it becomes established. Once established, watering can be reduced to about once a month.
Fertilization
Excessive fertilization can harm Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes, so only minimal fertilization is necessary. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring or early summer, but only every two to three years.
Pruning
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes needs little to no pruning to maintain its natural shape. Deadheading can be done after the flowering season to encourage new growth and prolong the life of the plant.
Propagation of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes, also known as MacDougal's buckwheat, can be propagated by several methods such as seed germination, division of roots, and stem cuttings.
Seed Germination
Seeds of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii should be sown in a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0-7.5 in early spring or fall. Prior to sowing, it is recommended to stratify the seeds for 4-6 weeks by keeping them in a refrigerator at a temperature of 33-41°F. The seeds should be sown at a depth equal to their diameter and should be kept moist until germination occurs which takes about 2-4 weeks.
Division of Roots
The root ball of the mature plant can be carefully dug up and divided into several smaller sections, each with their own set of roots. This division should take place in early spring when the plant is still dormant, and the divided sections should be planted in a soil mix with the same pH and requirements as mentioned in the seed germination method. The divided sections should be watered immediately after planting.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii can be propagated by taking 3-4 inches long stem cuttings from the parent plant either in the early spring or early fall. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until the roots develop. New growth indicates root development and the plant can be transplanted into individual containers.
Disease Management
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes is generally a hardy plant that is not easily affected by diseases. However, there are some possible diseases that can affect this plant:
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by fungi that affect the roots of plants, leading to the death of the root system. To avoid this disease, it is important to ensure that the soil has good drainage and is not waterlogged. If root rot is detected, it is recommended that the plant be removed and the soil treated with a fungicide before replanting.
- Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of plants and appears as a white, powdery coating. To prevent this disease, it is important to ensure good air circulation around the plant and to avoid wetting the foliage when watering. If mildew appears, it can be treated with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes can be susceptible to some pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of plants. They can cause damage by sucking the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, a strong jet of water can be used to knock them off the plant. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control them.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause damage by sucking the sap from the plant's leaves, leading to yellowing and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, a strong jet of water can be used to knock them off the plant. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control them.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies, and can cause damage by chewing on the leaves of plants. To manage caterpillars, they can be picked off by hand or a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis can be used.
It is important to regularly monitor Eriogonum microthecum Nutt. var. macdougalii (Gandog.) S. Stokes for signs of disease or pest infestation, and to take action promptly if anything is detected. Proper plant care, including providing good growing conditions and avoiding stress, can also help to prevent problems before they occur.
