Origin
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes, commonly known as the Shiny Leave Buckwheat, is a species of buckwheat native to western North America. It can be found in various habitats, including forests, shrublands, and rocky slopes, across California, Oregon, and Nevada.
Common Names
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes is commonly known as the Shiny Leave Buckwheat, but it is also referred to as Coast Buckwheat, Lompoc Buckwheat, and Santa Barbara Buckwheat.
Description
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes is a low-growing shrub that typically reaches a height of 6-12 inches and a width of 1-2 feet. The leaves are small, oblong-shaped, and leathery, with a shiny upper surface and a grayish-green lower surface. The plant produces numerous branches that terminate in densely packed clusters of tiny, pink or white flowers. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and other pollinators.
Uses
The Shiny Leave Buckwheat is commonly used in landscaping and restoration projects due to its attractive appearance and ability to tolerate drought, salt spray, and poor soils. It is also used by Native American tribes for its medicinal properties, including the treatment of colds, fever, and gastrointestinal problems. Additionally, the plant serves as a valuable food source for butterflies and other wildlife.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes thrives in full sun and does not tolerate shade. The plant requires direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day to grow healthy and produce flowers. Shade-grown or indoor-grown plants are usually weak and less productive.
Temperature Requirements
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes is native to California and Oregon, where it grows in a Mediterranean climate. The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 20 °F (-6.7 °C) in the winter to over 100 °F (37.8 °C) in the summer. However, it prefers temperatures between 60 and 80 °F (15.5 and 26.7 °C) and may suffer from frost damage if exposed to temperatures below 25 °F (-3.9 °C).
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soils. The plant is adapted to low-nutrient soils and can grow in rocky or gravelly soils as well. It requires a pH range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, between 6.0 and 8.0. The plant can tolerate drought and does not require regular watering, but occasional watering during long dry spells may help it thrive.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes is a hardy plant that can grow in various soil types, including loamy, clay, and sandy soils. However, it requires proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. The plant can grow up to 2 feet high and 3 feet wide; thus, it needs sufficient space for spreading. It is best to plant it in spring or fall when the soil is moist and the temperature is cooler.
Watering Needs
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes prefers moderate watering. Once established, it can tolerate drought and irregular watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. It is advisable to water the plant slowly, deeply, and infrequently. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry to touch. You can use a rain gauge to measure the amount of water the plant gets, and avoid watering during rainy periods.
Fertilization
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes does not require regular fertilization because it thrives in low-fertility soils. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote blooming. Use a fertilizer with low nitrogen content to avoid stimulating excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. Follow the instructions on the package for the recommended amount of fertilizer to use.
Pruning
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes does not require regular pruning. However, you can trim back the plant after the blooming period to encourage bushier growth. Use clean pruning shears to make cuts at a 45-degree angle at the nodes where the leaves join the stems. Avoid cutting too much of the woody stems because the plant may take longer to recover. You can also remove dead or diseased stems throughout the year to maintain the plant's overall health and appearance.
Propagation of Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes is a member of the Buckwheat family. It is a small, evergreen shrub native to California. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and showy blooms. Here are some propagation methods for Eriogonum parvifolium:
Seed Propagation
One way to propagate Eriogonum parvifolium is through seed propagation. Sow the seeds indoors in early spring in a well-drained potting mix. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them to individual pots. Harden them by exposing them to the outdoors gradually, and then transplant them to their permanent location in the garden in the fall.
Cuttings Propagation
Another way to propagate Eriogonum parvifolium is through taking cuttings. Take the cuttings from semi-hardwood growth in late spring to summer. Dip the ends in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the cuttings should root in a few weeks. Transplant them to their permanent location in the garden when they have rooted and started to grow.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method for propagating Eriogonum parvifolium. In early spring, dig out an established clump and carefully divide it into several sections. Each section should have some roots and shoots. Then, plant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until they become established.
Disease Management
Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes is a hardy plant that isn't often plagued by diseases. However, the following are some common diseases that could potentially affect it:
- Root rots: These are caused by fungal pathogens, such as Armillaria mellea and Phytophthora cinnamomi. Infected plants become stunted and wilted, and eventually, the leaves turn yellow or brown. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining, and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease forms a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flower buds. It can cause the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead irrigation.
- Mosaic viruses: These viruses cause mottled or streaked patterns on the leaves. The plant growth becomes stunted, and the leaves may curl or distort. To prevent mosaic viruses, ensure that you use disease-free planting material, and avoid working with plants when they are wet.
If any of the above diseases affect your Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes, remove the affected plant parts, and dispose of them properly. Also, avoid planting susceptible plants in the same area, and ensure that you maintain good plant hygiene.
Pest Management
Similar to diseases, the Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes plant is relatively resistant to pests. However, the following are commonly seen pests and their treatments:
- Spider mites: These tiny, reddish-brown pests feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow or brown. Spider mites can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: They are small, green pests that feed on the plant sap, causing leaves to curl and grow distorted. Aphids can be washed off with water, and insecticidal soap can be used to control severe infestations.
- Mealybugs: They look like small, white cotton balls. Mealybugs feed on plant sap, causing leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. They can be removed manually or using insecticidal soap.
Monitoring your Eriogonum parvifolium Sm. ssp. lucidum J.T. Howell ex S. Stokes regularly helps to identify and control pest problems. If you notice pest infestations, remove and dispose of affected plant parts, and ensure that you maintain good plant hygiene to prevent future infestations.
