Eriogonum, Genus, latifolium, Species,
- Genus & species
seaside buckwheat
Pacific coast (Oregon to California)
Overview
Eriogonum latifolium is a low, mounding perennial or subshrub in the buckwheat family (Polygonaceae), forming a basal rosette of foliage 6-16 inches (15-40 cm) tall and about as wide. The spoon-shaped leaves are 0.6-2 inches (1.5-5 cm) long, green and nearly hairless above, densely white-woolly beneath, with edges that often roll under. From summer into fall, leafless, branching stalks rise above the foliage and carry tight, rounded clusters of tiny flowers that open white to pale pink and age to rust-red. The flower balls draw many native bees, butterflies, and other insects, and the plant is a larval host for several coastal butterflies. It grows on coastal bluffs, dunes, and sandy headlands exposed to wind and salt spray. The dried flower clusters hold their form into winter. One limitation is its need for fast-draining soil and its dislike of summer water and humidity, which cause rot in heavier inland gardens.
Native Range
Eriogonum latifolium is native to the Pacific coast of North America, from Oregon south along the California coast. It grows on coastal bluffs, dunes, and sandy slopes within reach of ocean wind and fog.Suggested Uses
Eriogonum latifolium is used in coastal, native, and pollinator gardens, on sandy banks, and in dune and bluff restoration. Its long bloom and host value suit butterfly and habitat plantings. The need for sharp drainage limits its use in heavy or irrigated inland beds.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6" - 1'4"
Width/Spread1' - 2'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
white to pink, aging rust-redFoliage Description
green above, white-woolly belowGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Eriogonum latifolium grows in full sun on fast-draining sandy or rocky soil and tolerates wind, salt spray, and lean, poor ground. It needs little or no summer water once established and rots in moist, rich, or poorly drained soil. Cool coastal conditions suit it, while hot, humid inland sites are harder for it to tolerate. It needs no fertilizer and resents soil disturbance around the crown. Few pests trouble it. Spent flower stalks can be left for winter structure and seed.Pruning
Spent flower stalks are cut back in late winter before new growth, or left standing for seed and structure. Tattered leaves are removed from the crown as needed. The plant resents hard cutting into old wood, so pruning stays light.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
