Eremogone Kingii

Description

Eremogone Kingii, commonly known as the King’s Sandwort or King’s Stitchwort, is a hardy and beautiful wildflower that belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family. It is native to the high alpine and subalpine regions of Alaska, particularly in the Brooks Range, Chugach Mountains, and Alaska Range. This perennial plant can endure harsh weather conditions, from freezing temperatures to intense sunlight, making it a favorite among gardeners and hikers alike.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Eremogone Kingii grows up to 10 centimeters tall and 20 centimeters wide. It has narrow, green leaves that are about 1-2 centimeters long. From June to August, it produces small white or pink flowers with five petals that form a star shape. The flowers grow in clusters on thin stems that rise above the foliage. The plant’s root system is shallow and fibrous, allowing it to grow well in rocky or gravelly soil.

Care Guide

Eremogone Kingii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for it:

• Water: Eremogone Kingii can tolerate dry soil, but it needs regular watering during the growing season. Water it deeply once a week or whenever the top inch of soil feels dry.
• Fertilization: This plant doesn’t require fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to encourage growth.
• Soil: Eremogone Kingii thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can grow in sandy, rocky, or gravelly soil, but it doesn’t do well in heavy clay soil.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate intense sunlight, but it needs some shade during the hottest part of the day.
• Hardiness Zones: Eremogone Kingii is hardy to USDA zones 3-7.

Common Pests and Diseases

Eremogone Kingii is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by the following:

• Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of Eremogone Kingii. You can handpick them or use slug bait to control them.
• Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Eremogone Kingii is native to the high alpine and subalpine regions of Alaska, where it grows in rocky or gravelly soil. It can be found in the Brooks Range, Chugach Mountains, and Alaska Range. It is also cultivated as an ornamental plant in rock gardens or alpine gardens.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Eremogone Kingii grow in containers?

A: Yes, Eremogone Kingii can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes. Use a potting mix that is designed for succulents or cacti.

Q: How often should I prune Eremogone Kingii?

A: Eremogone Kingii doesn’t require regular pruning, but you can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Prune any dead or damaged foliage in early spring.

Q: Can Eremogone Kingii tolerate frost?

A: Yes, Eremogone Kingii is a hardy plant that can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures. It goes dormant in winter and resprouts in spring.

Q: How can I propagate Eremogone Kingii?

A: Eremogone Kingii can be propagated by division in early spring or by taking stem cuttings in early summer. Plant the divisions or cuttings in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until they establish roots.

Related Plants

• Eremogone capillaris
• Eremogone congesta
• Eremogone fendleri
• Eremogone hookeri

References

• Alaska Natural Heritage Program. (2021). Eremogone kingii. Retrieved from https://aknhp.uaa.alaska.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Eremogone-kingii.pdf
• USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Eremogone kingii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ERKI
• Wikipedia. (2021). Eremogone kingii. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eremogone_kingii