Dwarf Wild Buckwheat
eriogonum ovalifolium
Also known as: ["Cinquefoil Buckwheat","Roundleaf Buckwheat"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial native to arid regions of western North America, known for its small, rounded leaves and clusters of yellow flowers.
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 ovalifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, dry slopes, or xeriscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-30–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Sandy, loamy soil with excellent drainage and low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance for partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Avoid direct scorch; provide dappled shade in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks, or when soil is dry to the touch
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; test pH if uncertain.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates cold but dislikes excessive heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if at all, as it is adapted to poor soils
Avoid over-fertilizing; use sparingly; focus on phosphorus and potassium for root and flower development.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth begins.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of sand, perlite, and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a healthy bud or leaf node; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure it’s not too large.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only if roots are crowded or soil is depleted; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure water drains freely from the pot or soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate small amounts of compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if temperatures drop below freezing without protection.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in prolonged high heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply once in early spring and once mid-summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriogonum ovalifolium is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicEriogonum ovalifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Humans
Non-toxicEriogonum ovalifolium, commonly known as dwarf buckwheat, is not known to produce toxic compounds that pose a significant health risk to humans. It is generally considered safe for incidental contact and ingestion in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not considered toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriogonum ovalifolium toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much water does this plant require?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks, or when soi |
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