Cushion Buckwheat
Eriogonum ovalifolium
Last reviewed: August 2026
Eriogonum ovalifolium is a drought-tolerant native perennial forming dense cushions across western North America. This cushion buckwheat blooms white to pink from June through August, attracting bees and other pollinators.
Toxicity unknown
Cushion Buckwheat (Eriogonum ovalifolium) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–8" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Before you buy
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Cushion buckwheat forms tight, low mounds of small oval leaves that stay green year-round. In summer, it produces clusters of small white to pink flowers that create a neat, compact appearance.
Growing Cushion Buckwheat
Grow Cushion Buckwheat in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 2 to 8 inches tall and spread 4 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cushion Buckwheat is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, beetles, and flies. Its dense, low growth provides shelter for beneficial insects.
Common questions
- Where does Eriogonum ovalifolium naturally grow?
- Cushion buckwheat is native to 12 western states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Nevada, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
- When does cushion buckwheat bloom?
- Eriogonum ovalifolium typically blooms from June through August, producing clusters of small white to pink flowers above its cushion-like foliage.
- What pollinators visit cushion buckwheat?
- The flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, beetles, and flies, making it valuable for supporting local pollinator populations.
- How much water does Eriogonum ovalifolium need?
- This plant has low water requirements and is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it ideal for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.
- Is Cushion Buckwheat HOA-friendly?
- Cushion Buckwheat is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Cushion Buckwheat? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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