Origin
Eriogonum multiceps Nees, also known as the Basalt buckwheat, is a native plant species found in the western United States and northern Mexico. It is commonly found in the dry, rocky soil of basalt fields and lava beds.
Common Names
Besides Basalt buckwheat, this plant is also known by several other common names, including Cushion wild buckwheat, Cushion buckwheat, and Head buckwheat.
Uses
Although not generally used for its medicinal properties, Eriogonum multiceps Nees has some practical uses. For example, it is a great plant for erosion control and is often used in landscaping to stabilize slopes and rocky terrains. The Basalt buckwheat is also a great plant to attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, to your garden.
General Appearance
Eriogonum multiceps Nees is a herbaceous perennial shrub that grows up to 10 cm tall and 60-80 cm wide. It has small, round, woody stems and thick, fleshy leaves that are up to 1.5 cm long. The plant produces tiny white to pinkish flowers that bloom in clusters from May to August. Because of its compact size and shape, the plant resembles a green cushion, making it quite an attractive plant in gardens and landscapes.
Growth Conditions for Eriogonum multiceps Nees
Eriogonum multiceps Nees, commonly known as the cushion buckwheat, is a native plant found in rocky and dry areas of the western United States. To ensure proper growth and development of the plant, the following are its typical growth conditions:
Light
The cushion buckwheat requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. Therefore, it is recommended to plant the seedlings in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. The presence of partial or complete shade can negatively affect the growth of the plant, leading to weak stems and lack of flowering.
Temperature
Eriogonum multiceps Nees is a hardy plant that thrives in warm to hot temperatures. It can withstand moderate to high temperatures of up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the plant requires cooler temperatures during the night, with a recommended range of 35-60 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme temperatures can damage the plant and stunt its growth.
Soil
The cushion buckwheat grows well in well-drained and dry soils. The plant is adapted to rocky and sandy soils with a pH range of 6.5-8.5. The soil should be free of clay and should have excellent drainage as the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its structure and increase its water-holding capacity to support the growth of the plant.
Cultivation of Eriogonum multiceps Nees
Eriogonum multiceps Nees, commonly known as cushion buckwheat, is a highly beneficial perennial succulent plant that grows well in rocky soil and in a high desert climate. The plant requires full sunlight with well-draining soil.
How to Water Eriogonum multiceps Nees
Watering Eriogonum multiceps Nees plants excessively can cause their roots to rot. Therefore, it is crucial to adopt a watering routine that keeps the plant moist but not overwatered. Water the plant once a week during the growing season, especially in the hottest months.
Fertilizing Eriogonum multiceps Nees
Eriogonum multiceps Nees can grow well without fertilization. However, to boost the plant’s growth, you can fertilize it with a slow-release granular fertilizer in the spring or fall. It is recommended to use fertilizers made explicitly for succulent plants, and you should follow the packaged directions.
How to Prune Eriogonum multiceps Nees
Eriogonum multiceps Nees plants require minimal pruning. However, it is always necessary to prune the dead or yellow leaves from the plant. Prune the plant after flowering to encourage more buds to grow.
Propagation of Eriogonum multiceps Nees
Eriogonum multiceps Nees, also known as Many-Headed Wild Buckwheat, is a perennial subshrub that is native to California. It is commonly found in dry and sandy soils in the coastal regions and foothills of the state. Eriogonum multiceps Nees can be propagated by two methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Eriogonum multiceps Nees can be collected from the plant during its blooming season, which falls between July and August. The seeds should be left to dry for a few days and then stored in a cool, dry place until needed. Prior to sowing, the seeds must be treated to break the dormancy. This can be achieved by soaking them in hot water for 24 hours or by stratification, which involves keeping them in a moist, chilled environment for several weeks. Once the dormancy is broken, the seeds can be sown in a well-drained soil mix, either indoors or outdoors, in late fall or early spring. The seedlings should emerge in a few weeks, and they can be transplanted to their permanent locations in the following spring.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Eriogonum multiceps Nees can be achieved through stem cuttings and division. Stem cuttings should be taken from the plant in late spring or early summer and should be about 4-6 inches long. The bottom of the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-drained soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded area until roots develop, which typically takes 2-3 months. Division can be done in the fall or early spring by separating the plant into smaller clumps, each with its own root system. The clumps can then be planted in their permanent locations.
Disease Management
Eriogonum multiceps Nees, commonly known as cushion buckwheat, is relatively resistant to diseases. However, in some cases, the plant may be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can cause discoloration or spotting of the leaves, reducing the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant.
To manage these diseases, remove infected leaves and dispose of them properly. Regularly check for signs of disease and properly sanitize gardening tools. Use fungicides as necessary and follow the instructions carefully.
Pest Management
Eriogonum multiceps Nees is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some common pests that may affect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and root weevils. These pests can cause discoloration, deformation, and even death of the plant.
To manage these pests, start by regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control the population of pests. Apply insecticides as necessary, following the instructions carefully and considering the potential impact on beneficial insects and other plants nearby.
