Origin of Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal is a species of wild buckwheat that is native to North America, specifically in the Colorado Plateau region of the United States. It is typically found growing at elevations between 4,000 and 8,000 ft.
Common Names
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal is commonly known as Goodman's wild buckwheat. It is sometimes also referred to as umbel-flowered buckwheat.
Uses
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal is primarily used as a native ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. Its attractive, flat-topped clusters of bright yellow flowers bloom in the late spring and summer, providing a splash of color to the landscape. Additionally, the plant's deep tap roots help prevent soil erosion, making it a popular choice for planting on slopes and hillsides.
General Appearance
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal is a perennial herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of 6-12 inches. It has narrow, oblong leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The plant's flowers are small, five-petaled, and brightly colored yellow, forming dense flat-topped clusters that bloom from May to July. The plant's stems are typically reddish-brown in color and covered in fine hairs.
Growth Conditions for Eriogonum Umbellatum Torr. Var. Goodmanii Reveal
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal, commonly referred to as Goodman's wild buckwheat, is a shrubby perennial plant native to the intermountain regions of the Western United States. The plant grows in various habitats, including semiarid grasslands, sagebrush steppe, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. The growth conditions required for this species are discussed below:
Light Requirements
The plant prefers full sun exposure throughout the day. It is well adapted to high light intensity, and it grows poorly in shaded areas. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it in sites that receive direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal grows well in a range of temperature conditions typical of arid and semiarid regions. It thrives in temperatures between 60-90°F (15-32°C) during the growing seasons. During the winter, the plant becomes dormant, and it can tolerate freezing temperatures. However, it requires a temperature range of 30-50°F (-1-10°C) for successful dormancy.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers soils that are well-drained, moderately fertile, and with low to moderate levels of moisture. It is adapted to grow in rocky and gravelly soils, including soils derived from volcanic rocks, sandstone, shale, and limestone. The plant can withstand soils with a pH range of 5.5-8. It does not tolerate waterlogged soils or salinity. It is essential to amend the soil with organic matter and provide adequate drainage before planting to ensure optimal growth conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal, commonly known as Sulphur flower buckwheat, prefers full sun exposure to partial shade. Plant the species in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can withstand an array of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. Ensure that the temperature is between 20°C to 37°C.
Propagation of Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal can be achieved through seeds or transplants. When planting the seeds, ensure that the soil is moist to enhance germination. Transplants should be planted in spring when the soil has warmed up. Space the transplants between 12 to 24 inches apart to ensure robust growth.
Watering Needs
Regular watering of Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal is crucial to promote healthy growth and flowering. The plant prefers moderate watering and can tolerate drought conditions. During the summer, water frequently, especially in well-draining soils.
Avoid overwatering the plant, especially during winter, as the roots can easily rot. Ensure that the soil dries out between waterings to maintain a healthy root system.
Fertilization
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal does not require frequent fertilization as it can thrive in nutrient-poor soils. However, a little boost of fertilizer can enhance growth and blooming.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in springtime to supplement the plant's growth. Avoid overfertilizing the plant, as it can cause excessive growth, leading to a reduction in flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal is not necessary as the plant has a bushy growth habit. However, to promote branching and enhance the plant's overall shape, deadhead spent flowers and pinch off the tips of the plant.
Trimming should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Cut back overgrown or leggy stems to maintain a compact and dense growth habit.
Propagation of Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal, is typically propagated by seeds but can also be propagated by cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The plant produces many small seeds that are dispersed by wind, water, or wildlife. These seeds should be sown in the fall or spring to allow for natural stratification, or the process of exposure to moist, cold temperatures to break seed dormancy.
After sowing the seeds, it is beneficial to cover lightly with soil, water, and place in a sunny location. Germination may take several weeks and can vary depending on the specific growing conditions.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a more challenging method and can be done in the summer when the plant has hardened greenwood. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and should be 4-5 inches long, with several nodes on the stem.
The cuttings should then be stripped of leaves on the bottom half of the stem and treated with a rooting hormone. Afterward, the cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix in a pot or container and placed in a sheltered location. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, until roots have developed.
Disease Management
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal, also known as Goodman's carpet, is known to be susceptible to various diseases. Potential diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi, and it usually occurs in plants growing in poorly drained soil. This disease can be avoided by ensuring that the soil is well-drained and avoiding over-watering the plant.
- Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are caused by various fungal pathogens, and they appear as brown or yellow spots on the leaves. Management of this disease involves removing and disposing of infected leaves, avoiding overhead watering, and maintaining proper air circulation around the plant.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is caused by a fungal pathogen, and it is characterized by a white, powdery coating on the foliage. Management of this disease involves ensuring the plant is well-ventilated and avoiding overhead watering.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by a fungal pathogen, and it can cause foliage and stem blight. Management of this disease involves removing and disposing of infected plant material and applying fungicide.
Pest Management
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. goodmanii Reveal is also susceptible to various pest infestations. Some common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the foliage, leaving behind a stippled appearance and may cause yellowing of leaves. Management of this pest involves consistent watering and ensuring the plant is well-hydrated, as well as applying insecticide if necessary.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant. They can cause distortion of the foliage and stunted growth. Management of this pest involves washing the plant with a strong stream of water, applying insecticidal soap, and introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are caterpillars that feed on the roots and foliage of the plant, often cutting through the stem at the base of the plant. Management of this pest involves handpicking the cutworms, applying insecticide if necessary, and maintaining proper sanitation in the garden.
