Eriogonum ursinum

Eriogonum ursinum is native to the middle elevations of the northern Sierra Nevada mountains, growing in full sun in most areas, afternoon shade in desert areas. Water once/week until established, then water once/month or so; needs good drainage. With many clusters of white or yellow flowers on flat foliage, this buckwheat is an excellent groundcover at higher elevations when mixed with Arctostaphylos uva-ursi. The buckwheats are very important butterfly plants and one of the pillars of their communities. The flowers, leaves and seeds are all used by many of the smaller animals. Click here for more about California Buckwheats