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Description
Eriogonum Alatum, commonly known as Winged Buckwheat, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It is native to North America and is found mostly in the western United States. This plant is characterized by its small, yellow flowers that bloom in clusters on top of tall stems. The leaves are narrow and elongated, with prominent veins and a blue-green color. Eriogonum Alatum is a hardy plant that is drought-tolerant and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
Eriogonum Alatum is a small, clumping plant that can reach a height of 2-3 feet. The leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring up to 4 inches in length, and have a bluish-green color. The flowers are small, less than an inch in diameter, and are grouped in clusters on top of thin stems. The petals are yellow and have a slightly crinkled appearance. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall, and the flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Eriogonum Alatum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral.
- Sunlight: Eriogonum Alatum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum Alatum is generally pest and disease-free, but here are some potential issues to watch out for:
- Spider mites: These pests can cause leaf discoloration and webbing.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves.
- Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to die.
Habitat
Eriogonum Alatum is native to North America and is found mostly in the western United States. It grows in dry, rocky soils in open areas such as deserts, grasslands, and scrublands. This plant is an important food source for wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eriogonum Alatum a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Alatum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and is a great choice for beginners.
Q: Does Eriogonum Alatum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s small, yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Eriogonum Alatum grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize Eriogonum Alatum?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Eriogonum Fasciculatum
- Eriogonum Umbellatum
- Eriogonum Grandiflorum
- Eriogonum Wrightii
References
- Bauer, S. (2020). Eriogonum Alatum. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERAL
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Eriogonum Alatum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ERAL
- Calscape. (n.d.). Eriogonum Alatum (Winged Buckwheat). Retrieved from https://calscape.org/Eriogonum-alatum-()
