Eriogonum ovalifolium (Cushion Buckwheat) is found throughout the Rocky Mountain and Great Basin regions growing on rocky slopes among scattered small brush and grasses. Plants may stay more compact at high elevations and grow taller at lower elevations. Despite its expansive native territory, this species is rarely available commercially. Plant in small spaces and rock gardens where you can enjoy its creamy-yellow pom-pom flowerheads up close! Young flowers may vary from cream to yellow, and age to reddish or purple.

Eriogonum ovalifolium is an important food source for native bees and beetles, and it is a host plant for butterflies including Bauers dotted-blue and Bramble hairstreak.

This versatile perennial is a valuable addition to rock gardens, alpine beds and xeriscapes where its attractive silvery leaves complement other low-growing plants. Plant in full sun in gritty, well-drained soils. Keep dry in summer and remove dead flower stems once blooms have faded. Cushion Buckwheat is a low-maintenance perennial that requires minimal to no supplemental water once established.