Conejo Buckwheat

(Eriogonum crocatum)

Conejo Buckwheat (Eriogonum crocatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Eriogonum crocatum, commonly known as Conejo Buckwheat, is a deciduous subshrub or shrub native to the chaparral and coastal sage scrub ecosystems of Southern California. It typically grows less than 0.5 meters (1.6 ft) high and 0.5–1 meter (1.6–3.3 ft) wide. The plant features striking silvery-green, woolly leaves and produces clusters of tiny, bright sulfur-yellow flowers that are highly attractive to pollinators. The flowering season extends from April to August, with no dormancy period. Conejo Buckwheat is valued for its drought tolerance and is used in native plant gardens, xeriscaping, and as an accent plant due to its compact size.

Conejo Buckwheat is appreciated for its ease of maintenance, adaptability to clay soils, and its resilience to light freezes, making it a suitable choice for Southern California landscapes. It thrives in full sun and requires low to medium amounts of water, preferring soils with medium drainage. While it is reportedly difficult to cultivate outside its native range, in the right conditions, it can be a low-maintenance and attractive addition to gardens. However, gardeners should be aware that it may not adapt well to very different climates or soil types.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 1.5-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to chaparral and coastal sage scrub ecosystems of Southern California

Other Names

Common Names: Saffron Wild Buckwheat, Saffron Buckwheat

Scientific Names: , Eriogonum crocatum, Eriogonum saxatile var. crocatum,

GBIF Accepted Name: Eriogonum crocatum Davidson