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Description
Eriogonum Diatomaceum, also known as the Pincushion Buckwheat, is a perennial plant native to California. It belongs to the Polygonaceae family and is a small, low-growing shrub that can reach up to 2 feet in height and 3 feet in width. The plant has small, gray-green leaves that are covered in fine hairs, and it produces clusters of tiny, white to pinkish flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
Eriogonum Diatomaceum is a small, low-growing shrub with a round, compact shape. Its small, gray-green leaves are covered in fine hairs, giving them a velvety texture. The plant produces clusters of tiny, white to pinkish flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are held above the foliage on thin, wiry stems, and they attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
Eriogonum Diatomaceum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy and thriving:
Water
Water your Eriogonum Diatomaceum deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Eriogonum Diatomaceum does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can feed it with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if you want to encourage more blooms.
Soil
Eriogonum Diatomaceum prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy and clay-like, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Eriogonum Diatomaceum thrives in full sun, but it can tolerate light shade. Make sure your plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Eriogonum Diatomaceum is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum Diatomaceum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid watering too frequently. If you notice any signs of disease or insect infestation, treat your plant with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Eriogonum Diatomaceum is native to California and can be found growing in rocky, sandy soils in the coastal and inland regions of the state. It is typically found in chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats, but it can also be found in oak woodlands and other dry, open areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eriogonum Diatomaceum drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Diatomaceum is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water. However, it will perform best if watered deeply and infrequently.
Q: Can Eriogonum Diatomaceum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Diatomaceum can be grown in containers as long as the pot has good drainage and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Can Eriogonum Diatomaceum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Diatomaceum can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer. Make sure the cuttings are taken from healthy, disease-free plants and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I prune my Eriogonum Diatomaceum?
A: Eriogonum Diatomaceum does not require frequent pruning. However, you can prune it lightly in the fall or winter to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
- Eriogonum fasciculatum
- Eriogonum giganteum
- Eriogonum umbellatum
- Eriogonum wrightii
References
- “Eriogonum diatomaceum.” Calflora. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Eriogonum+diatomaceum
- “Eriogonum diatomaceum.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1101
- “Eriogonum diatomaceum.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 27 July 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=ERDI10
