California buckwheat
eriogonum fasciculatum
Also known as: ["coastal buckwheat","flat-topped buckwheat"]
Overview
A drought-tolerant shrub native to California, known for its clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers that turn brown as they age.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Genus: | Eriogonum |
| Botanical Name: | Eriogonum fasciculatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or open areas with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal; indoor plants need a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during dry periods, less frequently in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Thrives in warm to hot climates (60–90°F or 15–32°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers mild winters.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering for temperature changes.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in spring if growth is poor
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; apply in early spring.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and partial shade.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 3–4 weeks, increasing to every 1–2 weeks in summer.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; avoid planting in areas prone to hard freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply to keep roots cool.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilizing; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. Dilute to half-strength if using liquid fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriogonum fasciculatum is not toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEriogonum fasciculatum is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEriogonum fasciculatum, commonly known as California buckwheat, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does California buckwheat attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is California buckwheat toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much water does California buckwheat need?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during dry p |
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