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Photo by Stan Shebs

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Eriogonum parvifolium

Also Known As

Cliff Buckwheat
Coast Buckwheat
Dune Eriogonum
Sea Cliff Buckwheat

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 2'
W: 3'

planting zones

9a-10b

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Eriogonum parvifolium plant details

Eriogonum parvifolium is a broadleaf evergreen perennial with blue and green foliage. In fall, spring, summer and winter chocolate, pink, white and yellow flowers emerge. Attracts bees, beneficial insects and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Does well in average, clay, gritty, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something seaside / salt tolerant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Eriogonum parvifolium

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: polygonaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue and green
Mature size: 3 FT wide, 2 FT tall
Flowers: chocolate, pink, white and yellow blooms in fall, spring, summer and winter
Uses: container plant, long-blooming, native plant, rock garden, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Eriogonum parvifolium

USDA Zones: 9a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: seaside / salt
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

I saw this beautiful native “Buckwheat” growing in the Asilomar Dunes, apparently in pure sand. However, it has done very well in my Richmond clay garden where it has persisted for several years. The flowers are white, darkening to brown as they age, & if you sit next to the plant you will notice the myriads of nectar-seeking insects flying, buzzing, crawling everywhere. While clearly providing food for many insects wherever it is grown, it is famous as the nectar provider for the endangered El Segundo butterfly in Southern California. The plant grows low to around 2’ & spreads to 3’. The leaves are quite attractive: small, dark green with reddish tinges on the stems. It is very drought tolerant-. I have never watered it. This is a fine little Buckwheat for the coastal garden. No summer water necessary once established.