Redroot Buckwheat, Eriogonum Racemosum 10-200 Seeds
Redroot Buckwheat, Eriogonum Racemosum 10-200 Seeds
Plant Description: Eriogonum racemosum (Redroot Buckwheat)
Overview: Eriogonum racemosum, commonly known as Redroot or Racemose Buckwheat, is a hardy perennial plant native to western North America. Racemose Buckwheat is recognized for its unique appearance, with airy clusters of tiny flowers and distinctive, oval green foliage, with silver-grey green stems, making it an attractive addition to native plant gardens and naturalistic landscapes.
Features:
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Height and Growth Habit: Racemose Buckwheat typically reaches a height of 12 to 24 inches, forming a compact, mound. Its branching stems are generally bare until the clusters of flowers on top.
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Foliage: The leaves of Eriogonum racemosum, wider than other buckwheats and are ovalate. This drought-adapted is rather durable similar to oak leafs, and the stems are covered in fine hairs, giving it a soft and velvety texture.
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Flowers: The plant produces distinctive flower clusters atop slender stems. The tiny, tubular flowers are usually creamy white to light pink and are arranged in airy, raceme-like inflorescences. These blooms provide a delicate and charming aspect to the plant, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
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Seed Heads: After flowering, Racemose Buckwheat develops seed heads that add visual interest to the plant. The seed heads often take on a reddish hue, creating a contrast with the silvery green foliage.
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Adaptability: Eriogonum racemosum is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, thriving in well-drained soils. It is well-suited for xeriscaping and can endure prolonged dry conditions once established.
Landscaping Uses:
- Native Plant Gardens: Redroot Buckwheat is an excellent choice for native plant gardens, contributing to the biodiversity of local ecosystems.
- Xeriscaping: Its drought-tolerant nature makes it suitable for water-wise landscaping, particularly in arid regions.
- Rock Gardens: The compact size and silvery foliage make Redroot Buckwheat an attractive addition to rock gardens.
- Wildlife Gardens: The nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators, making it a beneficial plant for wildlife-friendly landscapes and bee keeping.
Planting and Care:
- Sun Exposure: Redroot Buckwheat thrives in full sun, appreciating the intense sunlight of its natural habitat.
- Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils are ideal. The plant is adapted to nutrient-poor soils. It is often found amongst sagebrush in the Nothern end of its range.
- Watering: Once established, Eriogonum racemosum is drought-tolerant. Water sparingly, as excessive watering can lead to root rot.
Racemose Buckwheat is a resilient and visually appealing plant that adds a touch of elegance to water-wise landscapes. Its silvery foliage, delicate flowers, and adaptability to arid conditions make it a valuable asset in gardens designed to conserve water while providing ecological benefits.