Santa Cruz Island Buckwheat — Eriogonum arborescens

Eriogonum arborescens

A shrubby island buckwheat with narrow pale leaves and flat clusters of cream to pink flowers. Aging flower heads turn reddish brown and remain attractive well beyond fresh bloom.

Southern California growing guide

• Light: Full sun near the coast; some afternoon shade can help in hot inland sites.
• Mature size: About 3–4 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide.
• Water & drought: Water through establishment, then irrigate infrequently. Especially drought tolerant in coastal conditions; inland plants may benefit from occasional summer water.
• Soil: Normal to lean soil with good drainage, including suitable draining clay.
• Growth: Evergreen, branching shrub with summer–fall flower interest. Growth depends on exposure, soil and water.
• Wildlife: Pollen and nectar support bees and butterflies; seeds feed wildlife.
• Maintenance: Leave selected flower heads for seed and color. Remove spent stems later and lightly shape as needed.
• Landscape uses: Native shrub borders, coastal gardens, habitat planting and dried flower arrangements. Provide space for a broad mound.

Representative species photograph, not current nursery stock. Photo: Stan Shebs, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. No intentional image modifications.