Island Buckwheat
Eriogonum arborescens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Island Buckwheat (Eriogonum arborescens) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
36"–96" H × 36"–96" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Island buckwheat is a large, rounded evergreen shrub with attractive clusters of creamy white flowers that age to rusty pink. Native to the Channel Islands, it features silvery-gray foliage and produces showy blooms from early summer through fall. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
Island Buckwheat is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone, backyard only.
- Large size may require occasional pruning to maintain tidy appearance
- Spent flower heads can look untidy if not trimmed
Wildlife value
Island buckwheat is highly valuable to pollinators, attracting numerous native bees, butterflies, and moths. The long bloom period provides a consistent nectar source through summer and fall months.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Island Buckwheat fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.