Origin
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal, commonly known as Shockley's buckwheat, is a species of wildflower in the family Polygonaceae. This plant originates from the western United States, specifically from Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. It commonly grows in sagebrush, juniper, and pinyon pine ecosystems at elevations of 4,000 – 9,000 feet.
Common Names
Shockley's buckwheat is the most commonly used name for this species, but it is also known by other common names such as Shockley's wild buckwheat, Shockley's eriogonum, long-lobed wild buckwheat, and sticky buckwheat.
Uses
Shockley's buckwheat is mostly used for landscaping and erosion control purposes. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can grow well in sandy or rocky soils. Additionally, this plant can be used as a food source for wildlife such as deer, rabbit, and bighorn sheep.
General Appearance
Shockley's buckwheat is a perennial shrub that grows up to 1 foot tall. Its leaves are small and narrow, about 1 inch long and 0.25 inch wide, and are green on top and grayish-white underneath. The flowers are small and white, forming a clustered inflorescence on top of the stems. The plant blooms from June to October. When in bloom, the flowers attract various pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Shockley's buckwheat gets its name from its sticky stems and leaves, which have small hairs or bristles that adhere to clothing or skin, similar to the way that buckwheat flour can stick together.
Light Conditions
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum prefers full sun exposure. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight to grow and thrive. Therefore, it is ideal to plant it in a location that is not shaded by trees and shrubs. However, if the plants are in an area that receives too much heat, they may require some shade during the hottest times of the day.
Temperature Conditions
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum is a desert plant and thus prefers warm and dry conditions. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 20°F to 110°F. However, it would be best if you protected it from temperatures below 20°F, as it may cause damage or kill the plant. During winter, it is ideal to protect the plant from freezing winds and heavy frost.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum thrives in soils that are well-draining and sandy. The soil should not retain water for an extended period, as this may rot the roots. A PH value of 6.0 to 8.0 is optimal for the plant to grow. Adding organic matter such as manure or compost to the soil increases fertility and improves soil structure. However, the plant is tolerant of poor soils and can grow in rocky or gravelly areas, as long as the soil is well-draining.
Cultivation Methods for Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in well-draining sandy soil in the fall or early winter, while cuttings can be taken during the summer. The plant prefers full sun exposure and is tolerant of hot and dry conditions.
Watering Needs for Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum
This plant is drought-tolerant, and overwatering can cause root rot. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out before the next watering. During the establishment phase, the plant may need more frequent watering to encourage root growth.
Fertilization for Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum does not require frequent fertilization. During the growth phase, a slow-release fertilizer can be used once a year in the spring. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote foliage growth over flower production.
Pruning for Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum
Pruning is not necessary for Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum, but deadheading spent flowers can promote reblooming. If the plant becomes too leggy or overgrown, it can be pruned back in the winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut back one-third of the plant, focusing on removing the oldest stems.
Propagation of Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum:
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal is a beautiful perennial herb that is native to the Great Basin of the United States. It can be propagated by both seed and vegetative methods, including stem cuttings and division.
Propagation by seed:
The easiest and most common way to propagate Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum is by seed. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in the spring or fall, or they can be started indoors in trays or pots.
If starting indoors, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. They should be kept in a warm, bright location and provided with plenty of light as soon as they germinate. Once the seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are large enough to be planted outside.
Propagation by stem cuttings:
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer. Collect stem cuttings from healthy plants with sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only one or two leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting thoroughly and cover it with a plastic bag or other clear covering to maintain humidity. Keep it in a bright location out of direct sun and check it regularly for signs of rooting.
Propagation by division:
Another way to propagate Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum is by division. This is best done in the spring or fall, when the plant is not actively growing. Dig up the entire plant and carefully separate the root system into smaller sections, each with several stems and a portion of the root system.
Plant each division in a new location, digging a hole that is slightly larger than the rootball and filling it in with soil. Water the new plants thoroughly and keep them well-watered until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal is a beautiful plant that is native to the western United States. It is commonly known as Shockley's buckwheat and is a popular choice for landscaping due to its attractive and unique appearance. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause significant damage. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal is susceptible to several diseases, including:
Phytophthora Root Rot
This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus called Phytophthora. The fungus attacks the plant's roots, causing them to rot. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Remove infected plants and avoid planting susceptible species in the same area.
Rhizoctonia Root Rot
This disease is caused by a soil-borne fungus called Rhizoctonia. The fungus attacks the plant's roots, causing them to rot. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Remove infected plants and avoid planting susceptible species in the same area.
Pests
Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal is also susceptible to several pests, including:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from plant tissue. They can cause leaves to curl and distort, and can also transmit viruses. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Mites
Mites are tiny arachnids that can cause damage to plant tissues. They can cause leaves to turn yellow and become dry and brittle. To manage mites, use a miticide spray or blast the plant with water to dislodge them from the leaves.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can help ensure that your Eriogonum shockleyi S. Wats. var. longilobum (M.E. Jones) Reveal plant remains healthy and beautiful for years to come.
