Cushion Buckwheat (Eriogonum ovalifolium)

Cushion Buckwheat

Eriogonum ovalifolium

Its silvery cushion of leaves glows in sun, a quiet drought-tolerant beauty. Low-growing flowering perennial; common name: cushion buckwheat.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade in extreme heat but may produce fewer blooms
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Watering Drought-tolerant; water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
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Temperature Hardy to cold winter temperatures; withstands frosts in USDA zones 4–8
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Oval to rounded, silvery-gray, woolly texture, arranged in dense basal rosettes
  • Flower: Tiny, clustered in flat-topped inflorescences; colors range from white to pale pink or yellow
  • Stem: Slender, erect stems rising 10–25 cm above the basal leaf cushion
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply every 7–10 days during active growth

Fertilization

Optional diluted, low-nitrogen feed once every 60 days. No regular fertilization required; excess nutrients may disrupt the plant's drought-adapted growth

Crushed eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to enhance drainage and add mild calcium supplementation
Pruning
  • Trim spent flower stems after blooming to maintain a tidy cushion shape
  • Remove dead or damaged basal foliage in early spring to encourage new growth
  • Avoid heavy pruning, as the slow-growing cushion habit regenerates slowly
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No reported toxicity to cats

Humans: No reported toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Xeriscaping, rock garden ornamental, pollinator support for native bees