Plant description
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson is a perennial subshrub that belongs to the Buckwheat family. It goes by the common names of Davidson's buckwheat, Mesa Verde buckwheat, and Davidson's eriogonum.
It has a low-growing habit and typically reaches a height of about 1 foot and spreads out about 3 feet wide. The leaves are small, sparsely hairy, and grey-green in colour. The flowers grow in clusters on top of erect, leafless stems and have a creamy-white to pinkish hue.
Origin and Distribution
Davison's buckwheat is primarily found in the western United States, specifically in California, Nevada, and Arizona. It was first identified by Stephen Watson and then further designated a variety by Willis L. Jepson in 1943.
The plant is indigenous to mountainous regions and can often be found growing in rocky soils, amongst other types of vegetation in subalpine habitats. Despite its limited distribution, it is considered a common species in its preferred habitat.
Uses and Benefits
Davison's buckwheat is an important plant species in the ecosystems it inhabits, serving as a food source for various insect pollinators such as butterflies, bees, and moths. It also provides essential habitat for birds, small mammals, and other wildlife.
The plant's unique appearance and attractive flowers can make it a desirable addition to gardens and landscaping. It is also drought-tolerant and requires little maintenance, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
Additionally, the plant has been traditionally used by Native American tribes for a variety of medicinal purposes, including treating fevers and headaches.
Conclusion
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson, also known as Davidson's buckwheat, is a hardy and adaptable plant species that plays an important role in its native ecosystem. With its attractive appearance and low-maintenance requirements, it has also become a popular choice for landscapers and gardeners looking to incorporate water-wise plants into their designs.
Growth conditions for Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson grows best in full sun conditions that receive 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant tolerate partial shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.
The plant is adapted to survive in harsh and arid environments, and it thrives in warm and dry climates. The ideal temperature range for the growth of this plant is between 68 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit (20-30 degrees Celsius). This plant can withstand cold conditions, but it is not a deep cold lover.
The plant prefers well-draining and sandy soils with pH ranging from neutral to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5-8.5). It can also grow in gravelly or rocky soils. This plant can tolerate poor soils and dry conditions, but it performs better in soils that are enriched with organic matter.
Cultivation Methods for Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial that is native to California. It is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9 and prefers to grow in full sun. The plant can tolerate a range of soils, including sandy, gravelly, and rocky soils, as long as the drainage is good.
To cultivate Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson, plant it in a well-draining soil mix in a location that receives full sun. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive without water for prolonged periods of time, but it does need occasional watering during the growing season to look its best.
Watering Needs for Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little water to survive. However, the plant does benefit from occasional watering during the growing season to maintain its appearance. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Avoid watering the foliage, as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson does not require fertilization, as it is adapted to low-nutrient soils. However, if the plant is being grown in a nutrient-poor soil, you can amend the soil with compost or a slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Do not fertilize the plant later in the season, as this can encourage weak growth that is susceptible to disease.
Pruning Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson does not require regular pruning, as it is a low-growing plant. However, you can prune the plant in the fall after it has finished flowering to remove any dead or damaged growth and to maintain the plant's shape. Avoid pruning the plant in the spring, as this can stimulate new growth that is susceptible to frost damage.
Propagation of Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson, commonly known as Davidson's buckwheat, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the western United States. It is a drought-tolerant, low-growing plant with yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. Propagation of this plant is typically done through seed propagation or vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest and most common method of propagating Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson. Seeds should be collected in the fall when the seed heads have turned brown and are dry. The seeds can then be stored in a cool, dry location until they are ready to be planted in the spring. To improve germination rates, the seeds can be soaked in water for 24-48 hours before planting.
Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination. The soil temperature should be between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson can be done through stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant in the spring or early summer. The cutting should be approximately 4-6 inches long and have at least one node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until roots develop.
Division can be done in the fall or spring when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections, each with their own set of leaves and roots. Plant these sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Overall, both seed propagation and vegetative propagation are effective methods of propagating Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson. Depending on the desired outcome, either method can be chosen for successful propagation of this low-growing herbaceous perennial plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson
Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson is a wildflower that is native to California, Nevada, and Oregon. Like any other plant species, this plant can suffer from various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Root Rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Muddy or waterlogged soil can make matters worse, as this disease thrives in wet conditions. To avoid root rot, plant this wildflower in well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering as well, particularly in areas with heavy soil.
Leaf Spot: Eriogonum molestum can also get affected by leaf spot, a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. Leaves can turn yellow and start dropping off. To manage leaf spot, remove affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap out of the plant, leaving the leaves curled and distorted. They reproduce quickly and can damage the plant significantly. A strong spray of water can help dislodge aphids from the plant. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage them.
Spider Mites: These pests are more prevalent in dry and dusty conditions. They are not insects but are related to spiders. Spider mites can cause yellow leaves, stippling, and webbing on the plant. Regularly spraying the plants with water can help keep spider mites at bay. You can also use miticides or beneficial insects like predatory mites to control spider mites.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the flowers and leaves of the plant, causing them to become discolored and distorted. They can also transmit viruses to the plant. Remove weeds from around the plant, as thrips often breed on them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage thrips.
Conclusion
Keeping Eriogonum molestum S. Wats. var. davidsonii (Greene) Jepson healthy and disease-free is essential to ensure optimal growth and beauty. By being vigilant for the signs of disease and pest infestations, you can take the steps needed to manage them promptly, protecting this wildflower from damage and ensuring it thrives in your garden.
