Science · Plants, Natives & Crops
California Buckwheat
Dryland California native with cream flower clusters that age rust-brown and provide long-season insect habitat.
Eriogonum fasciculatum · Evergreen shrub
Profile
- Light
- Full sun
- Size
- Commonly 1–4 ft; variety and cultivar affect form
- Soil
- Lean, well-drained soils; avoid excessive fertilizer
- Ecology
- Flowers support native bees and beneficial insects
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; depends on soil texture
- Salinity tolerance
- Not reliably characterized for this catalog label; avoid saline irrigation and diagnose with soil/water testing.
- Drought tolerance
- High once established.
Optimal root measurement depth
6–12 in
Typical active root zone for established native shrubs and vines. Typical guidance; confirm with a soil probe on site.
Allow substantial drying between deep irrigations; little summer water is needed on an appropriate established site.
Problems to watch
- Root rot from poor drainage
- Excess irrigation producing weak growth
- Woody sparse growth with age
Stress signs
- Blackening or collapsing crown
- Persistent yellowing on wet soil
- Progressive loss of live twig tips
Where you'll find it
- Pollinator planting
- Dry slope stabilization
More plants, natives & crops
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All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.