Overview
Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes, commonly known as nakedstem buckwheat, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Polygonaceae family. The plant is native to the western regions of the United States, including California, Oregon, and Washington.Description
The nakedstem buckwheat plant has a unique appearance, characterized by its naked, leafless stems that grow up to 10-30cm long. The plant features a dense cluster of small, white to pinkish flowers that emerge from June to August. It has small, narrow leaves that grow up to 5 cm long and are green or grayish-green in color. The plants grow in large colonies and have a mat-forming habit.Uses
The nakedstem buckwheat has several uses, both medicinal and otherwise. The plant is known to have antimicrobial properties and has been used traditionally by Native American tribes to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, headaches, and skin infections. Additionally, the plant is attractive to pollinators and is often used as a landscaping plant in gardens and parks.Common Names
The nakedstem buckwheat has several common names depending on the region, including naked buckwheat, Mesa buckwheat, sulfur flower buckwheat, and yellow buckwheat.Light Requirements
Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can grow in areas with some shade, but the plant will be less vigorous and have smaller flowers.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a variety of temperature conditions, but it prefers cooler climates. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit and up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it prefers temperatures in the range of 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum grows well in well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils with low to moderate fertility. The plant can grow in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. However, it prefers soils that are neutral to slightly alkaline, with pH levels between 6.0 and 7.5. It does not tolerate heavy, clay-rich soils or overly wet soils.
Cultivation
Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum is a hardy perennial that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure but can also grow in partial shade. It is best propagated by planting seeds or root cuttings in the fall or early spring.
Watering Needs
Although Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum is drought-tolerant, it requires adequate watering during the establishment phase. Once established, it can tolerate moderate to low water levels. Be sure to water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth and avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum does not require regular fertilization. However, a light application of a low-nitrogen fertilizer in the early spring can encourage healthy growth and flowering. Be sure to follow the recommended application rate and avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning
Deadheading spent flowers can encourage more blooms and prevent self-seeding. Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum can also be pruned lightly in the fall to promote a more compact growth habit. Be sure to remove any dead or diseased plant material promptly to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Propagation of Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes
Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes, commonly known as naked-stemmed buckwheat, is a sprawling perennial plant that is native to California. It can be propagated through various methods, including seed germination and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum. Seeds can be collected from mature plants in the fall, shortly after the flowers have finished blooming and the seeds have ripened. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.
Before planting the seeds, it is important to scarify them by rubbing the seeds against a fine-grit sandpaper or using a sharp knife to nick the surface of the seed coat. This will help water reach the embryo, promoting better germination. The seeds should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix in a container that has drainage holes. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered lightly.
After planting, the container should be placed in a location that receives bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. The seeds should germinate within two to four weeks. As the seedlings grow, they can be transplanted into individual pots to allow for more space and growth.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation involves taking stem cuttings from a mature plant and rooting them in a new container. This method can be used to propagate Eriogonum nudicaule ssp. ochroflorum in the early spring before new growth appears.
To propagate the plant through stem cuttings, select a healthy stem from the parent plant that has a few nodes. Cut the stem just below a node, and then remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix in a container with drainage holes.
The container should be covered with a plastic bag to create a humid environment, and then placed in a location that receives bright, indirect light. The stem should begin to root within two to four weeks. Once the stem has rooted, the bag can be removed and the new plant can be transplanted into its permanent container.
Disease Management for Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes
The Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes plant can be subject to various diseases that can impact its health. One common disease that can affect this plant is root rot. Root rot is caused by a fungal pathogen that affects the roots of the plant, leading to their decay. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging and reduce the risk of root rot. Avoid overwatering the plants and make sure that the plant's root system is allowed to dry before watering again.
The other common disease that affects the Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant, leading to a white, powdery coating on the leaves. If left untreated, powdery mildew can cause the leaves to yellow and drop. You can control powdery mildew by removing affected leaves and ensuring that there is adequate space between plants to allow for good air circulation. Avoid overhead watering, as moisture provides an ideal environment for the powdery mildew fungus to thrive.
Pest Management for Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes
The Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes plant can also be subject to pest attacks. One common pest that can affect the plant is spider mites. These pests are tiny and typically found on the undersides of leaves. Infested leaves may appear yellowed, stippled or may have fine webbing. You can control spider mites by washing leaves with a strong jet of water or using an insecticidal spray or soap. Ladybugs and lacewings are known to prey on spider mites and can be introduced into the garden to help control their numbers.
The other pest that can affect the Eriogonum nudicaule (Torr.) Small ssp. ochroflorum S. Stokes plant is aphids. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can appear in large numbers, sucking the juice out of the leaves and stems of plants. Signs of aphid infestation include curling leaves and sticky residue on the plant's leaves. You can control aphids by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs, using a strong jet of water to dislodge them, or using an insecticidal soap or spray.
