Eriogonum abertianum, commonly known as Abert’s buckwheat, is a perennial herb native to arid desert scrub and rocky slopes in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, as well as northern Mexico. It thrives in the Chihuahuan and Sonoran Deserts at elevations of 1,300-8,200 feet. This plant typically reaches 1-3 feet in both height and width, featuring a rounded form with woolly, tomentose leaves that provide a unique texture in the garden. The flowers, which bloom from late spring to early fall, can be white, pink, or yellow and are arranged in clusters that are highly attractive to pollinators.

Abert’s buckwheat is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens. Its flowers are particularly showy and provide a valuable nectar source for the Crescent Metalmark butterflies and native bees, enhancing biodiversity. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, needing only occasional water once established and full sun exposure to flourish. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases, it can suffer from root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0