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Description
Eriogonum Giganteum, commonly known as St. Catherine’s lace, is a perennial plant belonging to the family of Polygonaceae. This plant is native to California, specifically in the southern coast ranges from Santa Barbara County to San Diego County. St. Catherine’s lace is characterized by its long and narrow stems that can grow up to 10 feet tall. The flowers of this plant are small and white, and they are arranged in large, flat-topped clusters. The leaves of Eriogonum Giganteum are small and narrow, measuring around 2-4 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
| Species | Giganteum |
Appearance
St. Catherine’s lace is known for its unique appearance, with long and narrow stems that can grow up to 10 feet tall. The stems are covered with small, narrow leaves that measure around 2-4 inches long. The flowers of this plant are small and white, and they are arranged in large, flat-topped clusters that can measure up to 2 feet wide. During the summer months, the flowers of Eriogonum Giganteum attract a wide variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Eriogonum Giganteum is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in dry and arid environments. Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and requires little watering once established. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, as it can thrive in nutrient-poor soils.Soil: Eriogonum Giganteum prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or rocky. Avoid heavy clay soils that can retain moisture and cause root rot.Sunlight: This plant requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.Hardiness Zones: Eriogonum Giganteum is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum Giganteum is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in heavy clay soils. Common pests that may affect this plant include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Eriogonum Giganteum is native to California and can be found in dry and arid environments throughout the southern coast ranges. This plant is commonly found in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and other arid habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eriogonum Giganteum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its long stems.Q: Can Eriogonum Giganteum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer months.Q: How often should I fertilize Eriogonum Giganteum?
A: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, as it can thrive in nutrient-poor soils.Q: How often should I water Eriogonum Giganteum?
A: Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Eriogonum Giganteum:
- Eriogonum arborescens
- Eriogonum fasciculatum
- Eriogonum latifolium
- Eriogonum wrightii
References
- “Eriogonum giganteum.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1471
- “Eriogonum giganteum.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1092
- “St. Catherine’s Lace.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/erig-gig/st-catherines-lace
