Origin and Common Names
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes, also known as the Spreading Wild Buckwheat, is a flowering plant that is native to western North America. It is commonly found in California, Oregon, Nevada, and Utah and can be found at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 9,000 feet.
Appearance
The Spreading Wild Buckwheat is a perennial plant that grows up to three feet tall and four feet wide. It typically has multiple stems arising from a woody base. The stems are green and wiry, with small, grayish-green leaves that are densely arranged along the length of the stem. The leaves are shaped like a lance and have a rough texture. The flowers of the plant are small and white or pink in color, and are arranged in clusters that are up to six inches long.
The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can also grow in partial shade.
Uses
The Spreading Wild Buckwheat has both ornamental and ecological uses. It is often used in landscaping as a ground cover or border plant, and its dense growth and attractive flowers make it a popular choice for native plant gardens. The plant is also important ecologically, providing food and habitat for a variety of insects, birds, and small mammals.
In addition to its ornamental and ecological uses, the Spreading Wild Buckwheat has medicinal properties. The plant has been used by Native American tribes to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, respiratory infections, and stomach problems. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal properties.
Overall, the Spreading Wild Buckwheat is a versatile and valuable plant that is well-suited to a variety of climates and uses. Its attractive appearance, ecological importance, and medicinal properties make it a plant worth considering for both home gardeners and conservation efforts.
Light Requirements
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes typically grows best in full sun to partial shade. It thrives in areas with direct sunlight exposure for at least six hours per day, but it can tolerate some shade throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of temperatures. It can tolerate moderate freezing, but it prefers warmer temperatures. It can grow anywhere from 40°F to 100°F, but it typically thrives between 50°F to 90°F.
Soil Requirements
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes prefers well-draining soils with moderate moisture. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it tends to do best in dry, poor soils with low fertility. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 8.5.
Cultivation
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes is a perennial plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and spreads up to 18 inches wide. It is drought-tolerant and prefers dry to medium soil moisture.
When planting Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes, make sure to give it enough space to grow and spread. Space plants about 18 inches apart. Plant them in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Watering Needs
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes is a drought-tolerant plant and does not need frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry spells. Avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month or when the soil has completely dried out.
Fertilization
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply an all-purpose fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth. Follow the package instructions for application rates and how to apply.
Pruning
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes does not require regular pruning. However, you can remove any dead or diseased branches to maintain the plant's shape and health. Prune the plant during the fall or spring when the plant is dormant.
Propagation of Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes
Eriogonum vimineum Dougl. ex Benth. var. commixtum (Greene ex Tidestrom) S. Stokes, commonly known as Common Buckwheat, is a native herbaceous perennial plant that can be propagated by several methods, including seed and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Common Buckwheat can be easily propagated by seeds. The ideal time for seed sowing is in the fall, at the end of the growing season, or in early spring. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in a container with drainage holes. The container should be placed in a shady location, and the soil kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds should germinate within 1-2 weeks.
Division
Division is another method of propagating Common Buckwheat. The plant can be divided in the spring, before the growing season begins. The root ball should be carefully removed from the ground and divided into several pieces, ensuring that each piece has a healthy rhizome and a good amount of roots. The divided pieces can then be planted in a well-draining soil in a new location.
Cutting
Common Buckwheat can also be propagated by cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season, when the plant is producing new growth. The cuttings should be taken from the tips of the plant and should be 4-6 inches in length. The cuttings should be removed from the parent plant and planted in a well-draining soil mix. They should be kept in a shady location and the soil kept moist until they have established roots.
Disease Management
Eriogonum vimineum var. commixtum is generally disease-resistant, but it can sometimes get affected by fungal diseases. The most common fungal diseases that affect this plant are:
- Root rot: Root rot is usually caused by overwatering the plant or planting it in soil that doesn't drain well. To manage root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained by adding sand or gravel to the planting hole. Water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It is caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant by pruning any nearby bushes or trees.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by excess moisture on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, avoid getting water on the leaves when watering the plant and remove any affected leaves.
Pest Management
Eriogonum vimineum var. commixtum is generally not affected by pests, but it can sometimes get infested by insect pests. The most common insect pests that affect this plant are:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant. To manage aphids, wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that spin webs on the leaves of the plant and suck the sap from them. To manage spider mites, remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on the leaves of the plant and cause discoloration and distortion. To manage thrips, remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
