Origin and Common Names
Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones, commonly known as Ostlund's buckwheat, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Polygonaceae. The plant is native to the Western United States and can be found in Nevada, California, and Arizona. The plant is named in honor of Per Axel Rydin Ostlund, a Swedish plant collector who explored Nevada’s flora around the early 1900s.Appearance
Ostlund's buckwheat is a low-growing perennial plant that grows up to 1 to 2 feet tall and 2 to 3 feet wide. The plant has numerous branching stems with woody bases and small narrow leaves that are grayish-green in color. The leaves are about 1 to 2 inches long and are covered with fine hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. The flowers of the plant are small, pinkish, and occur in clusters at the ends of the branches from June to October.Uses
Ostlund's buckwheat is a popular plant in xeriscaping and water-wise gardens, owing to its tolerance of drought and its ornamental value. The plant can be grown in rock gardens, or as a groundcover in dry areas. In addition, the plant is an excellent source of nectar, attracting many species of butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. The plant is also known to have been used by indigenous peoples for medicinal purposes.Growth conditions for Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Light: Eriogonum ostlundii is a plant that typically grows in full sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade, but it will not flourish as well. It is crucial to plant E. ostlundii in a location with substantial access to sunlight.
Temperature: This plant is native to the high desert mountains of Utah and Arizona. It comes from a climate that is hot and dry, with temperature extremes in both winter and summer. E. ostlundii tolerates temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit but prefers temperatures at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Soil: As a wildflower native to arid areas, E. ostlundii thrives in arid soils. It prefers sandy or gravelly soils that drain well. It also grows in clay soils but prefers those with extremely good drainage. This plant can grow in soils with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 8.0. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive with little to no supplemental watering.
Cultivation of Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones is a drought-resistant plant that is native to North America. To cultivate this plant, it is essential to understand its habitat, soil requirements, and nutrient needs.
The plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. The soil should be slightly acidic or neutral, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones prefers dry conditions and can tolerate extended periods of drought. Plant the specimens in late spring or early summer when the soil has warmed up and the risk of frost has passed.
It is recommended to plant the Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones individually, with 2-3 feet spacing apart. This plant requires little to no care, making it a suitable addition to a low maintenance garden.
Watering Needs of Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones is a drought-resistant plant that can tolerate dry conditions. Overwatering the plant can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health. Once the plant has been established, it is recommended to reduce the watering frequency.
Water the Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones infrequently but deeply. This method promotes deep root growth, making the plant more resilient during dry periods. The plant's watering frequency varies depending on the season and weather conditions. During wet periods, reduce watering frequency and monitor the soil's moisture levels in hot, dry weather.
Fertilization of Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones does not require high levels of fertilizers, making it a low maintenance plant. Excessive fertilization can lead to the excessive growth of foliage, which can stress the plant.
It is recommended to add organic matter, such as decomposed leaves or compost, to the soil before planting. This method provides the Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones with the necessary nutrients to establish and develop its root system.
If the plant exhibits signs of nutrient deficiency, such as pale leaves or stunted growth, a low dose of all-purpose fertilizer can be applied. The application of fertilizer should take place during early spring or fall, before the plant becomes dormant and during its active growth season.
Pruning of Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones requires minimal pruning, making it an easy-to-care-for plant. Pruning should take place once the plant has completed its blooming cycle.
Cut back the plant to a height of 6 to 8 inches above the soil to encourage fresh growth. Prune the plant lightly to shape it, with care taken not to remove more than 1/3 of the plant's total foliage. Pruning during the fall and winter months can reduce the plant's hardiness, leading to damage during the colder seasons.
Deadheading the plant can also promote repeat blooming, which can extend the plant's blooming cycle and enhance its appearance.
Propagation of Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones, commonly known as Ostlund's buckwheat, is a small perennial plant endemic to the state of Utah in the United States. The plant is known for its attractive pink and white flowers and its drought-resistant qualities, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping. Propagation of E. ostlundii can be accomplished by several methods, including seed, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used for propagating E. ostlundii. The seeds can be collected from the plant in late summer or early fall, just before the seed heads begin to dry and turn brown. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining medium, such as a mixture of sand and perlite, and kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within three to four weeks.
Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be transplanted into individual containers and grown under controlled conditions for several months. When the seedlings have reached a suitable size and strength, they can be planted in their permanent location outdoors. Seed propagation is best done in the spring to allow for full development of the plant before winter.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of E. ostlundii by stem cuttings is another effective technique. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant in late spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing and producing new stems. Cuttings should be about four inches long and taken from the middle of the stem.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of sand and perlite. The cuttings should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in a shaded location. After several weeks, the cuttings should start to root and can be transplanted to individual containers. When the cuttings have reached a suitable size and strength, they can be planted in their permanent location outdoors.
Division Propagation
Division of an established E. ostlundii plant is a third propagation method. This can be done in the spring, just as new growth is beginning to emerge. The plant should be dug up carefully, and the root ball should be divided into several sections, each with a portion of the stem and root.
Each division should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture, such as a mixture of sand and compost. The divisions should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in a shaded location. After several weeks, the divisions should start to grow new leaves and can be transplanted to their permanent location outdoors.
Overall, Eriogonum ostlundii is a hardy and adaptable plant that can be propagated by several methods. By using the appropriate technique, growers can easily expand their collection of this unique and attractive plant.
Disease Management for Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Some diseases that could affect Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones include powdery mildew, leaf spot disease, and rust disease. Powdery mildew manifests as white, powdery patches on leaves and stems of infected plants. Leaf spot disease causes dark patches on the leaves, while rust disease creates yellow-brown spots on leaves that will eventually turn rusty red as the disease develops. To manage these diseases:
- Remove infected leaves as soon as possible.
- Avoid overhead watering.
- Ensure proper plant spacing and air circulation to reduce humidity around the plant.
- Apply fungicides as per instructions.
Pest Management for Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones
Some pests that could affect Eriogonum ostlundii M.E. Jones include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests are fond of sucking the sap of the plant's leaves, making them look withered and stunted. To manage these pests:
- Spray plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge the pests.
- Apply insecticidal soap according to the label instructions.
- Encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to control pests.
- Remove heavily infested leaves and stems, and dispose of them properly.
