Overview
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides, commonly known as the Pharaoh's Desertparsley, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Buckwheat family. The plant is native to the western regions of North America, and it is commonly found in Oregon, California, Utah, Nevada, and Arizona.
Description
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides features a dense mat of grey-green foliage, which is covered with silky hairs. The plant's leaves are oblong to oblanceolate, and they measure about 3 cm long. The plant grows up to 20 cm tall and 60 cm wide, and it has an erect stem that branches towards the top.
The plant produces inflorescences on the ends of its stems, which are typically composed of small clusters of white or pinkish flowers. The flowers have small, papery bracts that surround them, and they bloom from June to September. The plant's fruits are small, triangular achenes that are enclosed in a persistent calyx.
Uses
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides has several uses in traditional medicine. Native American tribes used the plant's roots to treat diarrhea, skin rashes, and sore throats. The plant also serves as a food source for various butterfly species and other pollinators.
The plant is also an attractive addition to gardens, particularly rock gardens and xeriscapes. It is easy to grow and thrives in sunny, dry locations with well-draining soil.
Conclusion
Overall, Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides is a beautiful and versatile plant with both medicinal and decorative uses. It is a hardy and low-maintenance addition to any garden, and its delicate, papery flowers offer a charming contrast to the plant's grey-green foliage.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides thrives in full sun to light shade. It prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight or partial sunlight to grow, flower, and produce seeds. Insufficient light may cause the plant to become leggy and weak, and can reduce and delay flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers dry and warm climates, with average temperatures ranging from 50°F to 90°F. It can tolerate moderate frosts after becoming established, but extreme cold may cause severe damage or even kill the plant. High temperatures tend to encourage blooming, while low temperatures may delay or prevent it.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides prefers well-draining sandy and rocky soils that are low in organic matter. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil pH, but it performs best in a slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 7.5 or higher. The recommended soil depth is at least 18 inches to allow for the plant's long taproot to develop. It is not tolerant of soils that are constantly wet or moist, as this can cause root rot or fungal diseases.
Cultivation
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soils. It can tolerate various soil types but prefers sandy, loamy, or gravelly soils. The plant is hardy and has low water requirements, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardening. It is also drought resistant and can handle varying temperatures.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering during the first growing season, especially during hot and dry periods. Once established, it only requires occasional watering, especially during extended droughts. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides does not require regular fertilization. Adding compost or a slow-release fertilizer during planting can help the plant establish faster and produce more flowers. However, too much fertilizer can cause the plant to produce too much foliage and fewer flowers.
Pruning
The plant does not require regular pruning, but removing spent flowers can help promote continuous blooming and prevent the plant from self-seeding. Pruning the plant in the early spring can also help maintain a more compact growth habit. If the plant gets too leggy or becomes too large for its area, it can be pruned back to a lower height in the late winter or early spring.
Propagation of Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides, commonly known as bronco buckwheat, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. This plant is native to western North America and typically grows in arid regions at altitudes ranging from 3000 to 7500 feet. Propagation of Eriogonum pharnaceoides can be accomplished using the following methods:
Seed propagation
Propagation of Eriogonum pharnaceoides can be achieved by utilizing its seeds. The seeds of Eriogonum pharnaceoides should be collected when ripe and sowed outdoors in late fall. Soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing can enhance their germination rate. The soil used for sowing the seeds should be well-drained and sandy with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and pat them down gently to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. Water the sowed seeds thoroughly, but avoid overwatering them. The seeds of Eriogonum pharnaceoides usually germinate within 2 to 3 weeks.
Division of root clumps
Root clump division is another effective way of propagating Eriogonum pharnaceoides. This method is best employed during early spring when the plant begins to show new growth. Dig up the clumps carefully, making sure to stay as close as possible to the plant’s base. Using a sharp, sterilized knife or shears, divide the root clumps into smaller sections of about 2 to 3 inches in diameter, making sure that each section has sufficient roots and shoots. Plant the divided sections in a well-prepared bed, making sure that they are watered well.
Cuttings
Propagation of Eriogonum pharnaceoides through cuttings can be challenging due to the plant's woody nature. It can be achieved by taking 4 to 6 inches long stem cuttings from newly grown branches during early summer. The bottom part of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone, and then it should be planted in a well-draining medium, i.e., sand and peat moss. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity and place it in a warm and bright location. Rooting will occur within 2 to 3 weeks. Once the cutting has rooted properly, it can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Disease Management
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides is generally a healthy plant that does not succumb easily to diseases. However, when conditions are not optimal, the plant may develop some diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust.
Powdery mildew can be managed by avoiding overhead irrigation, improving air circulation, and removing infected plant parts. Fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil can also be used to manage the disease.
Leaf spot can be controlled by removing infected plant parts and practicing proper sanitation. Fungicides containing copper can also be used to manage the disease.
Rust can be managed by removing infected plant parts and improving air circulation. Fungicides containing copper can also help manage the disease.
Pest Management
Eriogonum pharnaceoides Torr. var. pharnaceoides may be attacked by some pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to the plant by sucking its sap, leading to stunted growth and leaf yellowing.
Control of aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can be achieved by spraying the plant with insecticidal soaps or neem oil. These products suffocate the pests, making it hard for them to survive. The application of predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help control the pests.
Cultural practices such as adequate watering, proper pruning, and regular inspection of the plant for signs of infestation can also help prevent pest damage.
