Contents
Description
Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Flavoviride, commonly known as California Buckwheat, is a flowering plant that is native to California, Arizona, and Nevada. It is a member of the Polygonaceae family and is a shrub that can grow up to three feet tall and wide. The plant produces white to pinkish flowers that bloom from May to October and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The leaves of the plant are small and grey-green in color, and the stems are woody and branched.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
The California Buckwheat has a unique appearance, with small grey-green leaves and woody, branched stems. The plant produces clusters of white to pinkish flowers that bloom from May to October, and the plant is covered in a fine white hair. The flowers are small and attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and wide, making it a great addition to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
California Buckwheat is a hardy plant that requires little care. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in a variety of soils, including sandy and clay soils. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. To care for the plant, water it sparingly and avoid over-fertilizing. The plant does not require regular pruning, but can be shaped if desired. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
California Buckwheat is relatively pest-free and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant may also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Regularly inspecting the plants for pests and diseases can help prevent infestations and maintain plant health.
Habitat
California Buckwheat is native to California, Arizona, and Nevada and can be found growing in dry, rocky soils in coastal and inland regions. The plant is adapted to hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It is often found growing in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and other dry habitats. The plant is an important food source for pollinators and provides habitat for wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Can California Buckwheat be grown in containers?
A: Yes, California Buckwheat can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilizing.
Q: How often should California Buckwheat be watered?
A: California Buckwheat is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering.
Q: Is California Buckwheat a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, California Buckwheat produces attractive flowers that are a food source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune California Buckwheat?
A: California Buckwheat does not require regular pruning, but can be shaped if desired. The best time to prune the plant is in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Related Plants
- Eriogonum Grande Rubescens
- Eriogonum Giganteum
- Eriogonum Parvifolium
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Eriogonum fasciculatum var. flavoviride. Retrieved from https://www.cnps.org/gardening/natives/eriogonum-fasciculatum-var-flavoviride
- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Eriogonum fasciculatum var. flavoviride. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/eriogonum-fasciculatum-var-flavoviride
