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Description
Eriogonum strictum, commonly known as Rocky Mountain wild buckwheat, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Polygonaceae family. This plant is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and Canada. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide, with a woody base and multiple stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Polygonales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
Eriogonum strictum has green, narrow leaves that are 2-3 inches long and covered in fine hairs. The plant produces clusters of small, yellowish-white flowers from June to August. The flowers are arranged in a tight cluster at the top of the stems and can be up to 4 inches wide. The plant has a deep taproot that can reach up to 6 feet long, allowing it to survive in dry conditions.
Care Guide
Eriogonum strictum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: This plant doesn’t require fertilizer, but you can apply a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: Eriogonum strictum prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Amend heavy clay soil with compost or sand to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Eriogonum strictum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum strictum is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly-draining soil. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:
- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly-draining soil and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, plant Eriogonum strictum in well-draining soil and avoid over-watering.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Aphids: These pests can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Habitat
Eriogonum strictum is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and Canada. It grows in a variety of habitats, including dry rocky slopes, meadows, and open woods. This plant is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate high temperatures and low humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eriogonum strictum a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Eriogonum strictum is a great plant for landscaping. It’s low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and produces attractive flowers that can attract pollinators to your garden.
Q: Can Eriogonum strictum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Eriogonum strictum can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered properly.
Q: How often should I water Eriogonum strictum?
A: Water Eriogonum strictum deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. In general, water once a week during the growing season and less often during the winter.
Q: How do I propagate Eriogonum strictum?
A: Eriogonum strictum can be propagated by seed or by dividing the plant in the spring. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in the fall or early spring in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Eriogonum umbellatum
- Eriogonum fasciculatum
- Eriogonum giganteum
- Eriogonum luteolum
References
- “Eriogonum strictum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e882.
- “Eriogonum strictum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERST7.
- “Rocky Mountain Wild Buckwheat.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/eriogonum_strictum.shtml.
