Eriogonum wrightii

Common Names

Wright's Buckwheat, Shrubby Buckwheat, Bastard-Sage

Summary

Wright's buckwheat is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, found in rocky habitats from mountains to deserts. It shows variable growth forms from a small perennial herb to a bushy shrub, with basal leaves or leaves along the stem that are narrow and woolly; white to light pink flowers appear in clusters on long, straight branches, and nodes may bear small leaves.

For cultivation, it prefers full sun and well-drained, rocky soils with low water requirements, and is drought-tolerant; it can be used for erosion control and rock gardens. It attracts bees and butterflies and serves as a larval host for several butterfly species; propagation is by seed.

Lifecycle

Perennial (often acts like an annual in very dry/cold conditions)

Height

1-3 feet

Spread

18-36 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 4-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally full sun, also suitable for partial sun and partial shade.

Soil Type

Dry, well-drained rocky soil

Soil Drainage

Well-drained soil

Soil pH

6.5-6.5

Bloom Color

White

Bloom Time

Summer and Fall

Foliage Color

Gray to green foliage with silvery-gray tones.

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow

Leaf Lifecycle

Evergreen broadleaf

Growth Rate

Slow

Seasons of Interest

Summer and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Division

Attracts Wildlife

Bees: Yes, Butterflies: Yes, Other pollinators: Yes, Birds: Yes