Sulfur Buckwheat
eriogonum umbellatum
Also known as: ["Sulphur Buckwheat","Yellow Buckwheat"]
Overview
A low-growing, drought-tolerant perennial native to western North America, known for its clusters of sulfur-yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Genus: | Eriogonum |
| Botanical Name: | Eriogonum umbellatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or open sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–18–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade. Avoid sudden exposure to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure protection from harsh midday sun in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun lover; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; rotate pot for even growth.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils; use a mix with sand or perlite.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates cold but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from extreme heat; ensure good drainage in cold; avoid sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3 months with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Use minimal fertilizer; fertilize only in spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix such as perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots to develop; additional time for establishment.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back old or leggy stems to the base; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out crowded roots; place in a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant is root-bound or outgrowing its container. Eriogonum umbellatum prefers to be slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Use well-draining soil; choose appropriate pot size; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Water deeply to encourage deep roots, ensuring excess water drains away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, wilting, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat; leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or slow growth, but the plant is generally hardy to cold.
Solution: Ensure good soil drainage to prevent root rot in cold, wet conditions. Mulch lightly in winter to protect roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade during extreme heat; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use low-nitrogen fertilizer; dilute to half strength; apply in spring only.
Fertilizing Method
Fertilize sparingly, if at all. Use a low-nitrogen, balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength in spring. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriogonum umbellatum is not toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEriogonum umbellatum is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEriogonum umbellatum, commonly known as Sulfur Buckwheat, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriogonum umbellatum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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