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Description
Eriogonum Ursinum, also known as California Buckwheat, is a perennial shrub native to California, USA. It belongs to the Polygonaceae family and is commonly found in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. It can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and has a spread of about 3-5 feet. The plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers in clusters from summer to early fall. It is an important plant for wildlife and supports a variety of pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Polygonaceae |
| Genus | Eriogonum |
Appearance
Eriogonum Ursinum has a unique appearance with its woody stems and narrow, gray-green leaves that are about 1-3 inches long. The leaves are hairy and have a rough texture. The plant produces small, pinkish-white flowers that are about 1/8 inch wide and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The flowers have a pleasant fragrance and attract a variety of pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant has a mounding habit and can grow up to 3-4 feet tall with a spread of about 3-5 feet.
Care Guide
Eriogonum Ursinum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: California Buckwheat is drought-tolerant and does not require much water. Water the plant only when the soil is dry.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a variety of soil types. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Eriogonum Ursinum is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eriogonum Ursinum is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if over-watered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and water the plant only when the soil is dry.
Habitat
Eriogonum Ursinum is native to California, USA, and is commonly found in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. It can grow in a variety of soil types and is drought-tolerant. The plant is an important plant for wildlife and supports a variety of pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eriogonum Ursinum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Ursinum is considered deer-resistant.
Q: Can Eriogonum Ursinum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Eriogonum Ursinum can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
Q: How often should I water Eriogonum Ursinum?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is dry. Eriogonum Ursinum is drought-tolerant and does not require much water.
Q: When should I prune Eriogonum Ursinum?
A: Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut back about one-third of the plant’s height to encourage bushier growth.
Related Plants
- Eriogonum giganteum
- Eriogonum fasciculatum
- Eriogonum parvifolium
- Eriogonum wrightii
References
- “Eriogonum Ursinum.” Las Pilitas Nursery, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/erriogonum-ursinum.
- “California Buckwheat.” California Native Plant Society, www.cnps.org/gardening/california-buckwheat.
- “Eriogonum Ursinum.” The Jepson Herbarium, University of California, www.ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php?tid=27029.
