California Buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum)

California buckwheat (Eriogonum fasciculatum) is a shrub with a variable appearance, forming a patchy, compact bramble or a spreading bush. The leaves are leathery, woolly on the undersides, and rolled under along the edges. Profuse clusters of pink to white and cream-colored flowers appear as early as March and dry to a pretty red rust color. California buckwheats are tough and easy to grow, even in very dry conditions. They prefer a well draining sunny site. Once established, no water is needed but the plant can tolerate occasional summer water. As the soil dries, it sheds its dried flowers and a significant portion of its small blade-like leaves, creating natural mulch. Low growing forms make a good spreading ground cover, and taller varieties can even be shaped into hedges. California Buckwheat is a keystone species for sagebrush scrub ecosystems, and a great choice for wildlife and butterfly gardens. It is attractive to honey bees and a good source of nectar over many months in drier areas. From Calscape.