Origin
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum (M.E. Jones) S. Stokes is a native plant in North America, specifically found in the southwestern region of the United States. It is commonly found in Utah, Nevada, and Arizona.
Common Names
Commonly known as Shockley's wild buckwheat, this plant is also referred to as white wild buckwheat.
Uses
E. shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum is considered an ornamental plant due to its tiny white flowers that bloom in the summertime. The plant can be found in gardens or used as a decorative piece in landscapes. However, the plant doesn't have significant medicinal or edible value as far as is known.
General Appearance
E. shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum is a perennial herb that typically grows to a height of about 50 cm. It has ascending or erect stems with notable inflorescences and basal leaves that form a dense rosette. The leaves are leathery, with a dark green appearance, and are oval or round-shaped. The flowers grow in clusters ranging from 2-10 in number and are less than 1 cm wide. They are usually found at the end of elongated stems that branch out from the main stem. The flowers are primarily white but can occasionally have a pinkish hue. The blooming period of E. shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum is from July to September.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It is adapted to arid and semi-arid climates where it receives high amounts of sunlight. The plant may not thrive if grown in shaded areas or locations with limited sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in warm temperatures ranging between 70 to 90°F (21 to 32°C). However, during the winter season, it can survive in temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum prefers sandy and well-drained soils with low to moderate soil fertility. The plant is highly tolerant to drought conditions and can survive in soil with low moisture content. It grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum (M.E. Jones) S. Stokes is a native perennial plant that can be grown in well-draining soils. The plant grows in rocky and sandy soils and thrives in areas with full sun exposure. E. shockleyi is ideal for rock gardens, dry slopes, and xeriscapes.
When planting, ensure that the soil is thoroughly loosened and irrigated to reduce transplant shock. The addition of organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, can improve the soil structure to enhance growth.
Watering Needs
After planting, it is necessary to monitor the moisture level of the soil frequently. E. shockleyi prefers minimal moisture, and over-watering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Watering thoroughly and then allowing the soil to dry out before watering again is highly recommended. The frequency of watering depends on the weather and growing conditions, but it is advisable to water once every two weeks.
Fertilization
E. shockleyi is adapted to low-nutrient soils and is not a heavy feeder. The application of high-nitrogen fertilizer can result in excessive foliage growth and compromise flower production. It is recommended to apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season (Spring) and after the plant has finished blooming (Fall).
Pruning
E. shockleyi is a low-maintenance plant and requires minimal pruning. Removing spent blooms after flowering may encourage the development of more blooms in the same season. Pruning E. shockleyi regularly is not required as they have a naturally attractive habit.
Propagation of Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum (M.E. Jones) S. Stokes
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum (M.E. Jones) S. Stokes, commonly known as white sulfurflower, is a species of wild buckwheat that is native to the Great Basin in North America. This plant can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground or started indoors. If starting indoors, the seeds should be sown in late winter or early spring and kept under artificial light until they germinate.
The best time to sow seeds directly into the ground is in the fall, just before the first frost. The seeds should be placed in the soil at a depth of approximately 1/8 inch and covered lightly with soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Vegetative Propagation
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. ssp. candidum can also be propagated through vegetative propagation. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them to create new plants.
The best time to take cuttings is during the early spring when the plant is just starting its growth cycle. Cuttings should be taken from young, healthy stems and should be approximately 3-4 inches in length. The bottom end of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in soil or a rooting medium.
Rooting should occur within a few weeks, and once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Disease Management
Eriogonum shockleyi ssp. candidum can be affected by various types of diseases. The most common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as a white or grayish powder on the surface of the leaves. To control this disease, it is essential to keep the area around the plant clean and free of debris. The use of fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil can also be effective in controlling powdery mildew. The plants should also be watered early in the day to allow the leaves to dry off before nightfall.
Another disease that can affect Eriogonum shockleyi ssp. candidum is rust disease. Rust disease appears as small, yellow or orange colored spots on the leaves and stems. The use of fungicides can help control this disease, but it is also important to prune any infected areas and dispose of them properly.
Pest Management
Eriogonum shockleyi ssp. candidum is typically resistant to most pests, but some pests may still cause damage to the plant. The most common pests that can affect this plant are aphids and thrips. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. To control aphids, a strong spray of water can be used to wash them off the plant. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control them.
Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. They are known to cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves and flowers. To control thrips, the use of insecticides such as spinosad or neem oil can be effective. It is also important to remove any infected leaves or flowers and dispose of them properly.
Overall, proper care and maintenance of Eriogonum shockleyi ssp. candidum can help prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests. Keeping the area around the plant clean and free of debris, watering early in the day, and using organic methods such as insecticidal soap and neem oil can help keep pests and diseases at bay.
