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Description
Eriogonum Douglasii, commonly known as Douglas’ buckwheat, is a perennial wildflower that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. This native plant is found in the western United States, including California, Nevada, Utah, and Oregon. It typically grows up to 1.5 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant produces a large number of small, white to pink flowers from June to September. The flowers are arranged in umbels and give an attractive look to the plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
Eriogonum Douglasii has a bushy and compact growth habit. The leaves are narrow and elongated, with a gray-green color. The plant produces a large number of small, white to pink flowers that are held on long stems above the foliage. The flowers have five petals and are arranged in umbels. The plant blooms from June to September, and the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Eriogonum Douglasii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips to keep this plant healthy and thriving:
Water: Eriogonum Douglasii prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Eriogonum Douglasii does not require fertilization. If you want to promote blooming, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: Eriogonum Douglasii prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Eriogonum Douglasii prefers full sun exposure. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it may affect the blooming.
Hardiness Zones: Eriogonum Douglasii is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum Douglasii is a relatively pest-free plant. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot diseases. The plant may also attract aphids, spider mites, and thrips. To prevent these problems, you can maintain good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove infected leaves.
Habitat
Eriogonum Douglasii is a native plant that is found in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, sagebrush, and woodland areas. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought and heat. Eriogonum Douglasii is an important plant for wildlife, as it provides nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eriogonum Douglasii a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Douglasii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It does not require frequent watering, fertilization, or pruning.
Q: Can Eriogonum Douglasii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Douglasii can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should Eriogonum Douglasii be pruned?
A: Eriogonum Douglasii does not require regular pruning. You can remove the faded flowers and trim any dead or damaged branches as needed.
Q: How long does Eriogonum Douglasii live?
A: Eriogonum Douglasii is a perennial plant that can live for several years with proper care.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are similar to Eriogonum Douglasii:
- Eriogonum fasciculatum
- Eriogonum umbellatum
- Eriogonum giganteum
- Eriogonum grande var. rubescens
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/eriogonum_douglasii.shtml
- https://www.cnps.org/gardening/gardening-with-natives/eriogonum-douglasii
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Eriogonum+douglasii
