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Description
Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium, commonly known as the California buckwheat, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It is native to California, United States, and is commonly found in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 6 feet wide. It produces small white to pink flowers in dense clusters that bloom from June to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Polygonales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium has a bushy and spreading growth habit with woody stems that are reddish-brown in color. The leaves are small and narrow, measuring about 1 inch long and 0.25 inches wide, and are covered with fine hairs. The flowers are small, measuring about 0.25 inches in diameter, and are arranged in dense clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers are white to pink in color and turn reddish-brown when they mature. The plant blooms from June to October and produces attractive seed heads that resemble buckwheat grains.
Care Guide
Water: Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Sunlight: Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, but can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium is native to California, United States, and is commonly found in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. The plant prefers dry and rocky slopes, canyons, and hillsides. It is an important plant for the native wildlife, providing food and shelter for insects, birds, and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium deer resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer resistant and can be used in deer-prone areas.
Q: Can Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers if provided with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Q: How often should I prune Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium?
A: The plant does not require frequent pruning. However, you can prune back the stems in the spring to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: Can Eriogonum Fasciculatum Var. Polifolium tolerate salt spray?
A: Yes, the plant is salt tolerant and can be grown in coastal areas.
Related Plants
- Eriogonum Grande Var. Rubescens
- Eriogonum Giganteum
- Eriogonum Inflatum
- Eriogonum Parvifolium
References
- “Eriogonum Fasciculatum.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/eriogonum-fasciculatum.
- “Eriogonum Fasciculatum.” Calflora. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=2265.
- “California Buckwheat.” UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County. Accessed September 28, 2021. https://sonomamg.ucanr.edu/The_Kitchen_Garden/Feature_Vegetables/California_Buckwheat/.
