Sulfur-buckwheat
Eriogonum umbellatum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Eriogonum umbellatum is a drought-tolerant native wildflower blooming yellow from May through August across western states from California to Wyoming.
Sulfur-buckwheat (Eriogonum umbellatum) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Sulfur-buckwheat as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–24" H × 6"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sulfur-buckwheat is a striking native perennial with rounded clusters of bright yellow flowers that rise above a compact mat of silvery-green foliage. The flowers age to coppery orange, providing visual interest from late spring through summer. This drought-tolerant plant forms an attractive low mound that works well in rock gardens or as a border plant.
Growing Sulfur-buckwheat
Grow Sulfur-buckwheat in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 4 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sulfur-buckwheat is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Seed heads may appear untidy if not deadheaded after blooming
Wildlife value
Sulfur-buckwheat is a valuable pollinator plant, particularly attractive to native bees, butterflies, and beetles. The abundant blooms provide nectar and pollen during the summer months.
Common questions
- When does Sulfur-buckwheat bloom?
- Eriogonum umbellatum typically blooms from May through August, producing clusters of small yellow flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Sulfur-buckwheat?
- This native wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations in western landscapes.
- Where is Eriogonum umbellatum native?
- Sulfur-buckwheat is native to eleven western states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
- What growing conditions does Sulfur-buckwheat prefer?
- This hardy perennial thrives in full sun with low water requirements, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and natural gardens in arid regions.
- Is Sulfur-buckwheat toxic to dogs?
- Sulfur-buckwheat is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Sulfur-buckwheat toxic to cats?
- Sulfur-buckwheat is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Sulfur-buckwheat toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Sulfur-buckwheat as toxic to livestock.
- Is Sulfur-buckwheat HOA-friendly?
- Sulfur-buckwheat is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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.
Ready to grow Sulfur-buckwheat? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz