Origin
Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes, commonly known as ballhead eriogonum or curly-stemmed buckwheat, is a plant species native to North America. It is primarily found in the western part of the United States, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including ballhead eriogonum, curly-stemmed buckwheat, and knee-bending buckwheat. The name "ballhead eriogonum" refers to the spherical clusters of flowers that emerge from the top of the plant, while "curly-stemmed buckwheat" and "knee-bending buckwheat" refer to the plant's characteristic bent or curved stems.
Uses
Despite its common name, ballhead eriogonum is not related to the grain buckwheat. However, like many plants in the genus Eriogonum, it is an important source of food for insects and wildlife, including butterflies, bees, and birds. The plant's seeds and leaves are also used in traditional medicine by some Native American tribes to treat ailments such as fever and headache.
General Appearance
Ballhead eriogonum is a perennial herb that typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet. The plant's most distinctive feature is its curved or bent stems, which can be up to 3 feet long and give the plant a sprawling appearance. The leaves are small, gray-green, and oval-shaped, while the flowers are clustered together in spherical heads up to 1 inch in diameter. The flowers themselves are small and yellow to white in color, with numerous stamens protruding from the center. Ballhead eriogonum typically blooms in the summer and fall, and the flowers are followed by small, black seeds.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade may result in a leggy plant with reduced flowering and foliage density.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can tolerate frost. However, it prefers a warm, dry climate. During the growing season, optimal daytime temperatures range from 70 to 85°F (21-29°C), while nighttime temperatures should fall between 50-60°F (10-15.5°C).
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes prefers a well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil with a slightly alkaline pH (6.5 to 8.0). It can tolerate poor-quality soils, but may require the addition of organic matter to improve soil fertility and structure. Ample drainage is essential to prevent root rot during wet seasons. The plant is drought-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for xeric gardens with minimal water resources.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes, commonly known as roundhead wild buckwheat, is a drought-resistant perennial plant that requires minimal maintenance. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0. The plant is resistant to most pests and diseases and can tolerate moderate levels of salt. It can be grown in containers and is suitable for xeriscaping gardens.
Watering Needs
Roundhead wild buckwheat is a drought-tolerant plant and requires infrequent watering. Water deeply once a week in the absence of rain and allow the soil to dry out between watering. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month.
Fertilization
Roundhead wild buckwheat does not require fertilization. However, incorporating compost or slow-release fertilizer during the planting stage can improve soil quality and increase plant productivity. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can affect the plant's natural growth and flowering cycle.
Pruning
Roundhead wild buckwheat requires minimal pruning. Deadhead the spent flowers to encourage reblooming and maintain the plant's shape. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring by removing up to one-third of the oldest stems to promote new growth. During the growing season, trim back any wilted or damaged foliage as needed.
Propagation of Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes
Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes, commonly known as cushion buckwheat, is a drought-tolerant, winter-hardy, small sub-shrub plant that is native to North America. The plant is commonly found in western Montana, eastern Washington, and Oregon. While the plants may have an extensive root system, the plant can be easily propagated. The plant is propagated through cuttings, seeds, and division.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation of Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes through cuttings can be done starting midsummer. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood on growing tips or lateral branches that are 4-6 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the remaining leaves pinched in half to reduce moisture loss.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before inserting into seedling trays or sand filled pots with good drainage. The trays with cuttings should be kept well watered, but should not sit in standing water. Cuttings should stay in shaded areas with minimal direct sunlight. Roots should develop within four to six weeks.
Propagation through Division
Dividing mature Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes’ clumps can be done in winter or early spring. The plant’s roots are large and thick, making it easy to divide using a sharp spade or knife.
The clumps can be separated into smaller sections, with each section having some roots and shoots. The separated clumps can be planted in appropriately sized pots or back in the garden bed. It is important to keep the soil moist at all times till the plant is established.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation of Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes through seeds can be done in spring or fall. Seeding should be done where the plant will grow, as the plant prefers not to be transplanted once established.
Seeds should be sown just below the surface of the soil and kept moist till germination. It may take up to 2-3 weeks for germination to occur. Once the first set of true leaves appears, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or new locations in the garden bed.
Disease Management
Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes is generally a healthy plant when grown in its preferred growing conditions. However, certain diseases can affect the plant, such as:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by various species of soil-borne fungi that thrive in poorly drained soils. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure that the soil around the plant is well-drained. Avoid overwatering and plant the shrub in a spot where water doesn't pool.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can infect the leaves of the plant. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, prune out affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering, and water the plant at its base.
- Crown gall: Crown gall is caused by bacteria that infect the roots and stem of the plant. The infected plant tissue forms abnormal growths or galls. Unfortunately, there is no cure for crown gall. Affected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the bacteria.
Pest Management
While Eriogonum sphaerocephalum Dougl. ex Benth. var. geniculatum (Nutt.) S. Stokes isn't typically a target for pests, some common pests that may attack the plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck sap from the plant. To manage aphids, blast them off with water from a hose or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause stippling on the leaves of the plant. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to raise humidity levels and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that can suck sap from the plant, causing distorted growth and discoloration. They can also transmit plant viruses. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
