Coastal Buckwheat
eriogonum latifolium
Also known as: ["California Buckwheat","Seaside Buckwheat"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to coastal California, known for its clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers and drought tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Genus: | Eriogonum |
| Botanical Name: | Eriogonum latifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to encourage new shoots.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near large windows with direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; use raised beds in heavy soil areas; avoid over-amending with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates coastal fog and cooler summers; sensitive to extreme heat and prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near heat sources; monitor temperature fluctuations during seasonal transitions.
Fertilizing
every 3 months with balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only once a year; dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if used; skip fertilizing in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid overcrowding cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems; cut back to just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); avoid excessive pot size increases.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the container or growth slows; Eriogonum prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; minimal root disturbance.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply (6–8 inches); allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or compost to improve drainage and aeration; avoid dense amendments like peat moss in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch (brown edges), stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat; leaf discoloration or dieback in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage, slow growth, or dieback, especially in non-coastal regions.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold weather; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; fertilize sparingly, as Eriogonum is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriogonum latifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects resulting from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEriogonum latifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects resulting from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEriogonum latifolium, commonly known as coastal buckwheat, is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has been traditionally used in some regions for its aesthetic and ecological benefits without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriogonum latifolium suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly adapted to coastal conditions and thrives in sandy, well-drained soils.
Q: Does this plant require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers minimal watering once established.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is a valuable nectar source for bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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