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Interior California Buckwheat

Eriogonum fasciultum var polifolium

Out of stock

1 gallon

Plant Care

Native region:

Local Native; Mojave Desert

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Mature size:

Growth rate:

Full Sun

2'x3'

Slow; Moderate

Flower color:

Flower season:

Pruning:

Cream; Pink; White

Summer

None

Wildlife

Monarchs:

Yes

Nectar pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Rabbit resistant:

California Buckwheat has several recognized varieties found in different ecoregions. The Eastern Mojave or Interior California Buckwheat (var. polifolium) is a smaller and grayer buckwheat that is commonly found in the Sonoran and Mojave deserts. However, its range also covers the foothills of Southern California. It grows at elevations from 200-7500 feet, on dry slopes, washes, and canyons, in southern and central California as well as outside the state.

This plant is perfect for natural landscapes, especially in the foothills and deserts of its wide natural range. It is an important species in native plant communities since it provides valuable nectar for many species of butterflies and native pollinators. All parts of the plant - flowers, leaves, and seeds - are used by animals, making it an essential wildlife habitat plant. The gray foliage is striking when mixed in with the green of other plants. The creamy white flower heads sway in clusters on long tall stems throughout spring and summer, and hold on into the fall, transitioning to a rich coffee brown.

Buckwheat grows best with good drainage in full sun, and can reach heights of up to 3 feet. It is an excellent choice to stabilize a slope since the buckwheats are excellent at controlling erosion. This variety is both more heat tolerant and more cold tolerant than other natives, surviving temperatures as low as -20 degrees. It is a very tough and easy-to-grow plant.

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on my research from reliable sources, observations I have made of plants growing in my, and other gardens I have visited, and observations of the plants in their native habitats. I would appreciate your feedback and experience to help me educate others!

Cacti: In my experience, cacti are much happier in the filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Colors are more vibrant and they bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you pay attention to how our native barrel and beavertail opuntia grow in the wild, it is frequently tucked in the rocks under creosote or another shrub.

Light Requirements: I have found that in our desert (Sonoran/Colorado) “full sun” plants can take and appreciate the late afternoon filtered sun, especially in the hot summer months.