Chamise-leaf buckwheat
eriogonum parvifolium
Also known as: ["Chamise-leaf buckwheat","Small-leaved buckwheat"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub native to coastal California, characterized by small, leathery leaves and clusters of tiny, 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 parvifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rock gardens, or raised beds with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy 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). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday heat in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Hardy to USDA zones 7–10.
Protect from hard freezes; avoid extreme heat exposure; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, apply a balanced fertilizer once in early spring if growth is poor
Fertilize sparingly; use low-nitrogen formulas; apply before active growth begins.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pots after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems and spent flower stalks. Thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass cutters, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate 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 drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth, reducing frequency to once a month or less in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or compost to improve drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Can tolerate light frosts but prolonged freezing temperatures may damage foliage and slow growth.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch in colder zones. Move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Water deeply during heatwaves, but avoid wetting foliage.
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 frequent feeding; Eriogonum parvifolium is not heavy feeder.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEriogonum parvifolium is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicEriogonum parvifolium 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 applicable
Humans
Non-toxicEriogonum parvifolium, commonly known as coastal buckwheat, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriogonum parvifolium 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 due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
