St. Catherine's Lace
Eriogonum giganteum
Last reviewed: June 2026
St. Catherine's Lace (Eriogonum giganteum) 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
St. Catherine's Lace is a dramatic native shrub known for its large, flat clusters of creamy white flowers that hover above silvery-gray foliage. This drought-tolerant buckwheat grows into a rounded shape 3-8 feet tall and wide, creating an architectural focal point in the landscape. The flowers age to a rusty brown color that provides winter interest.
In an HOA neighborhood
St. Catherine's Lace is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.
- Large size can become dominant if not given adequate space
- Brown seed heads may appear untidy to some
- May look too informal for very structured landscapes
Wildlife value
This plant is extremely valuable to native pollinators, attracting numerous bee species, butterflies, and moths with its abundant nectar-rich flowers. Birds will also visit the plant for seeds after flowering.
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 St. Catherine's Lace fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.