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Description
Eriogonum Thymoides, commonly known as Wild Thyme Buckwheat, is a species of flowering plant in the Polygonaceae family. It is a native plant to the western United States and can be found in various habitats, including dry rocky slopes, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. This plant has a unique appearance and attracts several pollinators, making it an excellent addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
Eriogonum Thymoides is a low-growing perennial plant that forms mats of foliage. The leaves are narrow, linear, and densely packed, giving them a thyme-like appearance. The plant produces clusters of small, yellow-green flowers that bloom from May to August. The flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The plant grows up to 8 inches in height and spreads up to 24 inches.
Care Guide
Eriogonum Thymoides is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during hot summers and every two weeks during cooler months.- Fertilization: Eriogonum Thymoides does not require fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer in early spring if you want to encourage more blooms.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand and gravel to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Eriogonum Thymoides prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum Thymoides is generally free from pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues you may encounter:- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent this, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Root Rot: This disease occurs when the soil is too wet and can cause the plant to wilt and die. To prevent this, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Eriogonum Thymoides is a native plant to the western United States and can be found in various habitats, including dry rocky slopes, sagebrush, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. It is an excellent plant for xeriscaping and can thrive in hot, dry climates.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Eriogonum Thymoides?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during hot summers and every two weeks during cooler months.
Q: Does Eriogonum Thymoides attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces clusters of small, yellow-green flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Eriogonum Thymoides?
A: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline.
Q: Is Eriogonum Thymoides a low-maintenance plant?
A: Yes, this plant is low-maintenance and requires minimal care.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Eriogonum Thymoides:- Eriogonum Umbellatum (Sulphur Flower)- Eriogonum Fasciculatum (California Buckwheat)- Eriogonum Sphaerocephalum (Rocky Mountain Buckwheat)
References
– “Eriogonum Thymoides.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ERTH2.- “Eriogonum Thymoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b614.
