Overview
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw., commonly known as Cushion Buckwheat, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. It is native to the western region of North America, and it is known for its compact, mat-like form and its unique flowers.
Appearance
The Cushion Buckwheat is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of only 3-5 cm and a spread of 30-50 cm. It has thick, woody stems that are covered with tiny, gray-green leaves. The plant blooms from June to August and produces clusters of small, yellow flowers that are held above the foliage on slender stems. The flowers are held in a rounded head and have distinctive stamens that give them a fuzzy appearance.
Uses
Eriogonum scapigerum is an attractive ornamental plant that is used in rock gardens and as ground cover. The plant is known for its ability to grow in poor soils and is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent option for xeriscaping. Additionally, the plant is used in the herbal medicine world, where it has been said to help with a variety of symptoms such as swelling, inflammation, and indigestion. The plant is also used as a food source for wildlife such as bighorn sheep, elk, and pronghorns.
Conclusion
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. is a unique and attractive plant that is well-suited for dry climates and rocky soils. Its small stature and unique flowers make it a favorite in rock gardens and as an ornamental ground cover. With its use in herbal medicine, it is clear that there are more benefits to this plant than just its stunning looks, making it a true asset to the natural world.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. Therefore, it is best suited for planting in open areas with no shading from other vegetation. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight is necessary for proper growth.
Temperature Requirements
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. thrives in hot temperatures. Therefore, it is best suited for planting in areas with a warm climate, where the temperature ranges between 65 to 95°F or 18-35°C. It can withstand occasional low temperatures of 20 to 25°F (-7 to -4°C), but extended exposure to cold weather may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. prefers well-draining soils, which are typically sandy or gravelly with low organic matter content. The plant likes to grow in soils with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0, and it can tolerate soils with high salinity. It is also tolerant of drought conditions but does not do well in poorly drained soils.
Cultivation of Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw.
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. is a low growing flowering plant that is native to the western United States. It prefers well-draining soil with low to moderate water availability. When cultivating Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw., it is advisable to select an area with at least 6 hours of full sun exposure.
Watering Needs of Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw.
Due to its preference for well-draining soil, Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. should be watered moderately. It is recommended to let the soil dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases that can harm the plant.
Fertilization of Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw.
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soils; therefore, it does not require heavy fertilization. However, It is recommended to use a light application of a low to no nitrogen fertilizer, mainly during the growing season. This would result in a balanced growth of the plant and ensure that it thrives.
Pruning Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw.
Pruning Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. is not necessary. However, if needed, it is suggested to conduct the pruning either in the late winter or early spring before the plant begins to grow actively. It is advisable to prune old and straggly stems, spent flowers to stimulate new growth, and enhance the plant's form.
Propagation Methods for Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw.
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. is a native plant commonly found in the western United States. Propagation of this plant can be accomplished through several different methods.
Seed Propagation
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. can be propagated through the use of seeds. The seeds should be collected from the plant when they are mature in the late summer or early fall. The collected seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a flat or container and covered lightly with soil. The container should be kept moist until germination occurs.
Division
The plant can also be propagated through division. Using a sharp knife, the plant can be divided into several sections, each with their own roots. Each section can then be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly until new growth appears.
Cuttings
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. can also be propagated through the use of cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the plant in the early spring when new growth is just beginning. The cuttings should be approximately 3-4 inches in length and should be planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until new growth appears.
Grafting
Grafting is another option for propagating Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. This method involves taking a cutting from a desired plant and attaching it to a rootstock of a different plant. This method is typically used for growing new cultivars or for propagating difficult-to-root plants.
Disease Management
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw., commonly known as the Cushion Buckwheat, is generally a hardy plant. However, it may develop some fungal or bacterial diseases under certain environmental conditions.
The most common and potentially severe disease that affects the plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery layer on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can be controlled by maintaining good air circulation, avoiding overcrowding, and keeping the foliage dry. In severe cases, a fungicide application may be necessary.
Bacterial crown rot may also occur in E. scapigerum under extremely moist soil conditions. It can be identified by the brown or black discoloration of the plant's crown and stem base and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent this disease, ensure proper drainage, reduce overhead watering, and avoid planting in poorly drained areas.
Pest Management
Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw. is usually pest-resistant. However, some pests may feed on the plant's foliage and flowers and cause damage if not managed.
The most common pest affecting E. scapigerum is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap out of the plant and cause yellow spots, webbing, and leaf drop. They thrive in hot and dry weather conditions, so it's crucial to keep the plant adequately watered and to increase the humidity level. An insecticidal soap spray can also help to control spider mites.
The plant may also be attacked by aphids. Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that feed on the young foliage, stems, and flowers, causing them to distort and curl. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and can promote the growth of sooty mold. To control aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to the garden as natural predators of aphids.
Overall, maintaining the plant in healthy and stress-free conditions is the best way to prevent diseases and pests from damaging Eriogonum scapigerum Eastw.
