Origin
Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes, commonly known as the Tahoe Rim buckwheat, is a plant species that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It is native to North America, specifically found in the western United States, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. The plant prefers to grow in dry, rocky areas at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 feet.
Common Names
Aside from the Tahoe Rim buckwheat, the plant is also known by other common names such as the Cushenbury buckwheat and Seep-spring buckwheat.
Uses
The Tahoe Rim buckwheat has various uses among different cultures and industries. The plant's flowers are rich in nectar, which makes it an important source of food for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators in the wild. In some areas, particularly in Nevada, the plant is also used as a medicinal herb to treat diarrhea and stomachaches. Moreover, the plant's extensive root system helps stabilize the soil in erosion-prone sites.
General Appearance
The Tahoe Rim buckwheat is a low-growing perennial shrub that typically reaches a height of one to two feet. Its leaves are oval-shaped, about an inch long, and slightly hairy. The plant blooms from June to September, producing numerous clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers that grow on top of slender stalks. After flowering, the plant produces small, triangular seeds that are primarily dispersed by the wind. The plant's appearance varies depending on the location and elevation it grows, but it is generally a hardy species that can withstand different climatic conditions.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes is a plant that requires a moderate amount of sunlight. It will grow well under partial shade, but it will not tolerate full shade. For best results, this plant should be placed in a location where it can receive at least five hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes grows well in a variety of regions, but it prefers to be in an area with a moderate temperature. It can survive in temperatures as low as -10°F and as high as 100°F, but the optimal range is between 60-80°F. It can also tolerate occasional frost, but it will not thrive in areas with prolonged freezing weather.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining soil that is coarse and rocky, with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 8.0. It cannot tolerate clay soils. It grows well in soils that are dry to moderately moist, with a preference for sandy or gravelly soils. This plant has adapted to growing in the harsh conditions of rocky slopes, so it does not require nutrient-rich soil. Fertilization is not recommended.
Cultivation
Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that is easy to cultivate. It requires full sun exposure and well-draining soil that is not too rich in nutrients. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH and is ideal for xeriscaping gardens. It is also tolerant of different soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
Watering Needs
Although the plant is drought-resistant, it needs regular and deep watering during its early establishment phase. The best way to water it is to irrigate deeply but infrequently. For example, one inch of water per week should be enough, but it can vary depending on the weather conditions and soil type. It is crucial to let the soil dry out between watering intervals to prevent the plant's roots from rotting. Once established, the plant can tolerate long periods of drought.
Fertilization
Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't need much fertilization. However, if the plant appears stunted or the foliage is yellowing, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring. It is best to avoid feeding the plant during the fall or winter months. The best fertilizer for the plant is a low-nitrogen and high-phosphorus blend.
Pruning
The plant doesn't require severe pruning. However, it is best to trim the plant after flowering to maintain its shape. You can cut back any dead or damaged branches to stimulate new growth. It is crucial to use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant's healthy branches.
Propagation of Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes
Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes, commonly known as cushion buckwheat or saucer buckwheat, is a low-growing shrub that is native to the western United States. Propagation of this species can be accomplished by both seeds and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes can be directly sown outdoors in the fall or early spring. Before sowing, it is recommended to scarify the seeds by nicking the hard seed coat to allow for better water absorption. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. Once germinated, the seedlings can be thinned to allow for proper spacing.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes. Softwood cuttings can be taken in the spring when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the branches and should be approximately 4-6 inches in length. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then inserted into a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in a partially shaded area until they have rooted.
It is important to note that Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium (Tidestrom) S. Stokes is a slow-growing plant and may take several years to reach maturity. Propagating this species from cuttings may also take longer than propagating from seeds.
Disease management
One of the common diseases that affect Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium is powdery mildew. This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that form white, powdery growth on the surfaces of leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Avoid over-watering the plant and ensure proper air circulation. Fungicides can also be used to control powdery mildew, but it is advisable to use them in the early stages of the disease.
Another disease that can affect this plant is root rot, which is caused by soil-borne pathogens that attack the roots of the plant. To manage root rot, it is important to avoid over-watering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Improve soil aeration by adding organic matter. Fungicides can also be used to manage root rot, but prevention is the best approach.
Pest management
Eriogonum ovalifolium Nutt. ssp. eximium is primarily disease-resistant, but there are a few pests that can cause damage to the plant. One of the common pests is the eriophyid mite that feeds on the leaves and causes leaf distortion. To manage eriophyid mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are effective in killing the mites while being safe for beneficial insects.
The other pest that can affect this plant is the root-knot nematode that affects the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage root-knot nematodes, it is important to avoid over-watering the plant and maintain proper soil drainage. Crop rotation also helps in managing these pests, as it helps to weaken their populations in the soil over time.
