Conejo buckwheat (Eriogonum crocatum)

Conejo buckwheat

Conejo buckwheat (Eriogonum crocatum) is a small shrub found primarily in California in the U.S. It's found on dry hillsides, often growing from rock crags. The fuzzy whitish color of its leaves makes conejo buckwheat stand out, and it is now occasionally seen in desert and xeriscape gardens. It can be difficult to cultivate outside its native region, though, and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.

Scientific classification

Species

Conejo buckwheat (Eriogonum crocatum)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Conejo buckwheat

Quickly Identify Conejo buckwheat

Compact shrub, 1 1/2 feet (45 cm) tall, spreading 2-3 feet (60-90 cm) wide

Wooly silver-white leaves contrasting with sulfur yellow to chartreuse-yellow flowers

Flower heads shift from yellow to cinnamon-brown as seasons change

Evergreen foliage resilient to temperatures down to 20 F (-6.7 C)

Capable of resprouting if top growth affected by frost

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Care Guide for Conejo buckwheat

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Native to arid regions, conejo buckwheat thrives with minimal moisture and high drought tolerance. It requires watering every 2-3 weeks, mimicking its natural dry habitat. With a deep root system, conejo buckwheat effectively uses limited water resources in rocky outdoor soils during the growing season.

Fertilize: Conejo buckwheat thrives with infrequent fertilization using low-nitrogen formulas to enhance flowering while preventing excessive growth. A light annual application in late winter or early spring is ideal, with even distribution around the base. Established plants require no seasonal adjustments for optimal resilience.

Pruning: Conejo buckwheat features vibrant blooms and resilience. Prune in late spring to remove damaged stems, encouraging healthy growth without heavy pruning. Use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts above nodes. Regular monitoring aids in early issue identification, enhancing blooming and vigor.

Propagation: Conejo buckwheat is a perennial shrub from California, featuring yellow flowers and silvery leaves. For propagation, use semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy plants, snipped at a 45-degree angle. Place in well-draining soil with sunlight, optionally using rooting hormone, and maintain consistent moisture without overwatering.

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