Overview
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is a perennial flowering plant species in the Polygonaceae family. The species is commonly referred to as the sulphur-flower buckwheat. This species can be found growing wild in arid regions of western North America, including Arizona, Colorado, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming.
Description
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is a small, compact, woody perennial plant that grows between 5 to 30 cm tall and 10 to 30 cm wide. The plant has multiple linear leaves that are clustered towards the base of the plant. The leaves are about 2 to 5 cm long and have a woolly texture. The plant produces umbel-like clusters of small flowers that are deep yellow to sulfur in color. The flowers bloom in the summer and early fall.
Uses
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its vibrant yellow flowers. They are drought tolerant and capable of thriving in arid conditions, making them a popular choice for xeriscaped gardens. Additionally, the Navajo tribe historically used Eriogonum umbellatum in ceremonies and to treat ailments such as stomach aches and sore throats.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston typically grows in areas that receive full sun exposure. The plant requires around 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but may exhibit stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The species can thrive in a wide range of temperatures. Ideally, temperatures should remain between 50°F and 85°F throughout the growing period. During the winter, the plant can tolerate freezing temperatures but may lose its leaves in prolonged exposure to sub-zero temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Sandy or gravelly soils are the most suitable for this species but can tolerate a wide range of soil textures. It is important to avoid soils that are constantly moist, as the plant is susceptible to root rot in such conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight. It is highly adaptable to different soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. It is essential to plant the seeds in the fall before the first frost to allow for natural stratification. The plant prefers dry conditions, and overwatering should be avoided.
Watering Needs
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little to no water once established. Overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot and other diseases. Watering should be done sparingly during the plant's initial stages.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not necessary for Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston. The plant is adapted to thrive in nutrient-poor soils. Fertilization can, in fact, be detrimental to the plant's growth, causing excessive leaf growth with reduced flower production.
Pruning
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston requires minimal pruning, mainly to remove dead or diseased foliage. The plant should be pruned in the fall after the growing season has ended. Additionally, pruning helps to maintain the plant's shape and size, preventing it from becoming leggy or straggly. Pruning should be done sparingly to avoid damage to the plant.
Propagation of Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston, commonly known as sulfur flower, is a low-growing perennial plant that is native to the western United States. It typically grows up to 1 foot tall, with a spread of up to 2 feet. The plant produces beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Seed Propagation
Propagating Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston from seed is the most common method. Seeds should be collected in late summer, as soon as the seed head turns brown. The seeds should be cleaned of any debris and stored in a cool, dry place over the winter.
In the spring, the seeds should be planted in well-draining soil, in a sunny location. The soil should be moist, but not overly wet. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 1/4 inch. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston can also be propagated vegetatively through cuttings. This method is useful for growers who want to produce clones of a particular plant that have desirable characteristics.
To propagate through cuttings, take stem cuttings from the plant in the late summer or early fall. Cuttings should be 3-5 inches long and should include at least 2-3 nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a soilless rooting medium and keep it moist. Roots should develop within 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is generally a hardy plant, but it can be susceptible to a few diseases.
One common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves, stems, and flowers of Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston. Symptoms of powdery mildew include a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems, yellowing and browning of leaves, and stunted growth.
To manage powdery mildew, you can remove infected leaves and stems, and destroy them. This will prevent the disease from spreading to other parts of the plant. You can also improve air circulation around the plant by spacing them out and pruning any dense growth.
Another disease that can affect Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is Rust. Rust is a fungal disease that appears as small, reddish or yellowish-orange spots on leaves, stems, and flowers. Infected leaves may turn yellow and drop prematurely.
To manage rust, you can remove the infected plant parts and dispose of them. You can also prevent rust by watering your plants at the base to avoid wetting the leaves and providing adequate air circulation by maintaining proper spacing and pruning.
Pest Management
Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is also prone to a few pests that you may need to manage to keep your plants healthy.
One common pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves. Infestations can lead to yellowed leaves, stunted growth, and even death in severe cases.
To manage spider mites, you can regularly check your plants for signs of infestation and use a strong stream of water to wash them off the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soaps or oils to control their population.
Another pest that can harm Eriogonum umbellatum Torr. var. minus I.M. Johnston is cutworms. Cutworms are caterpillars that live in the soil and feed on the roots and stems of the plant. Symptoms of cutworms include wilting of the plant and chewed stems near the soil line.
To manage cutworms, you can install collars around the base of your plants to protect them from the larvae. You can also choose to manually remove the cutworms from the plants, and use insecticide as a last resort if the infestation gets out of control.
