Conejo buckwheat (Eriogonum crocatum)

Also known as: Conejo Buckwheat

Eriogonum crocatum, also known as saffron buckwheat, is a small shrub native to Ventura County, California. It typically grows on arid hillsides and rocky outcrops. The plant is distinguished by its fuzzy, whitish leaves. While it is sometimes used in desert and xeriscape gardens due to its drought tolerance, it is challenging to grow outside its natural habitat and does not withstand freezing temperatures.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Conejo buckwheat

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm)

Leaf Color

Gray-green

Flower Size

About 0.2 to 0.5 inches (5 to 13 mm)

Flower Color

Yellow Green

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

Scientific Classification of Conejo buckwheat

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Caryophyllales

Family

Buckwheat

Genus

Wild Buckwheat

Species

Conejo buckwheat

Planting and Growing of Conejo buckwheat

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Terracotta

How to Water Conejo buckwheat?

Eriogonum crocatum requires careful watering, as overwatering can be detrimental. Aim to provide about 200 milliliters per session, ensuring that the water reaches the roots but doesn't leave the soil soggy. The goal is to moisten the soil without excess water standing in the pot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Conejo buckwheat? ›

What should I do if my Conejo buckwheat is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Conejo buckwheat? ›

How to save an overwatered Conejo buckwheat? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Conejo buckwheat?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Eriogonum crocatum prospers with full sun exposure, enjoying 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Meeting this requirement results in prolific growth, vigorous foliage, and enhanced flowering, showcasing its natural beauty.

What type of sunlight does Eriogonum crocatum prefer? ›

How do I provide ideal lighting for Eriogonum crocatum indoors? ›

What benefits does Eriogonum crocatum gain from ideal lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Conejo buckwheat?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Eriogonum crocatum thrives best when kept in environments with temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This range allows it to perform optimal physiological processes necessary for growth and flowering. Maintaining temperatures within this range ensures robust growth and minimizes stress on the plant.

What Soil is Best for Conejo buckwheat?

Soil type: Loam, Calcareous soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Eriogonum crocatum thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot and ensures healthy growth. Providing soil that drains efficiently is key to supporting the plant's vigor and longevity, making for a robust specimen. This plant benefits from soil with moderate fertility, avoiding overly rich substrates that may encourage vigorous foliage at the expense of blooms. Balanced soil nutrition supports both lush foliage and abundant flowers. While somewhat tolerant, Eriogonum crocatum prefers soils not excessively alkaline, using minimal adjustments to pH levels to ensure nutrient availability and optimal absorption for enhanced plant health.

How to Fertilize Conejo buckwheat?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Eriogonum crocatum tends to thrive on a relatively low amount of fertilizer due to its native habitat in nutrient-poor conditions. When fertilizing, use half the recommended amount stated on general-purpose fertilizers to avoid harming the plant.

How to Prune Conejo buckwheat?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by inspecting the plant and removing any dead or diseased stems. Cut back the plant slightly to encourage bushier growth and enhance blooming. Always use sharp and clean pruning shears to make precise cuts just above the leaf nodes or healthy joints. This plant benefits from light trimming throughout the growing season to maintain its shape and promote air circulation within the foliage. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Conejo buckwheat plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Start by preparing a well-draining potting mix. Eriogonum crocatum prefers sandy soil that mimics its natural habitat. Use a mix of sand and peat moss to ensure proper drainage and aeration.

Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil mix. Lightly press them into the soil without covering them completely, as they require light for germination. Mist the soil gently to keep it moist.

Select healthy stems and take 4-6 inch cuttings. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote root development. Plant the cuttings in a pot with a suitable potting mix.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Conejo buckwheat plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repot Eriogonum crocatum when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes, indicating that the plant is root-bound. Another sign is a significant slowdown in growth due to cramped roots. The ideal time for repotting is during spring or early summer when the plant is in its growing phase, allowing it to adapt more effectively to the new environment.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches wider in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A terracotta pot is preferable due to its breathable material, which helps in maintaining an ideal moisture balance and prevents root rot, especially for a drought-tolerant plant like Eriogonum crocatum.

Use well-draining soil such as a cactus mix or a blend of sand, perlite, and potting soil to mimic its natural habitat. This type of soil prevents root rot by allowing excess water to drain quickly, maintaining a healthy root system crucial for the plant’s survival and growth.