Eriogonum grande is a species of wild buckwheat known by the common name redflower buckwheat. It is native to northwestern Baja California, as well as the Channel Islands of California. It is a mat-forming perennial herb producing tall, stout inflorescences of white, pink, or red flowers. Leaves are located mainly at the base of the plant and are wavy along the edges and up to 10 centimeters long. There are three varieties of this species:
E. g. var. grande - Pacific Island wild buckwheat, redflower buckwheat - found on several of the Channel Islands E. g. var. rubescens - San Miguel Island buckwheat, red-flowered Pacific Island wild buckwheat - found on the northern Channel Islands E. g. var. timorum - San Nicolas Island buckwheat - rare and endemic to San Nicolas Island
Red-flowered buckwheat has moderate disease resistance but is more sensitive to humidity. It is vulnerable to disease in high-humidity conditions and tends to develop root rot during dormancy. Regarding care, Red-flowered buckwheat is drought-tolerant yet requires more water while actively growing. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Red-flowered buckwheat is suited to growers with some experience, though it can be challenging to maintain, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for people who can devote time to its care during the winter months.
How to keep Eriogonum Grande.
Light
Native to dry regions, Red-flowered buckwheat flourishes in full sun; its native habitat features intense sunlight and little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in its growth.
Temperature
Although Red-flowered buckwheat tolerates some heat, it mainly thrives and grows in cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer temperatures, provide shade to avoid scorching from intense sunlight. Watering should be reduced or stopped during the hottest period to prevent root rot. Winter and spring are when Red-flowered buckwheat shows vigorous growth. As long as temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
Red-flowered buckwheat only needs light fertilizer applications once or twice a year during the growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or summer while it is dormant. Reduce feeding for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying fertilizer. Fertilizing promotes healthy growth and encourages flowering.
Pruning
Red-flowered buckwheat showcases striking red blooms and is well-suited to dry conditions. For best results, prune in early spring by cutting away faded flowers and trimming any overly long stems. This encourages new growth and helps maintain a compact shape. Be sure to use clean tools, and avoid excessive pruning to minimize stress on the plant. This will also improve air circulation and lower the risk of disease.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb, Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Eriogonum
- Family
- Polygonaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 8-10
- Mature Height
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Mature Spread
- 30 cm to 61 cm
- Leaf Color
- Gray, Green
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Color
- Pink, White
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall
- Native Area
- Mexico
Other names.
