Eriogonum elatum, commonly known as Tall Woolly Buckwheat, is a perennial herb native to various habitats including sagebrush steppe, dry meadows, and open coniferous forests in the western United States, from California to Idaho. It can reach a height of 2-5 feet with a similar spread and features long basal leaves that can exceed 8 inches in length. The foliage is often covered in a woolly down, giving the plant its common name. The thin, erect, branching stems, which are occasionally hollow, support large inflorescences with clusters of tiny flowers that bloom from midsummer to early fall. The flowers range in color from white to dark pink and are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Tall Woolly Buckwheat is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings. It is also used for habitat restoration and erosion control due to its extensive root system. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, preferring full sun and well-drained soils. While it is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, overwatering can lead to root rot. There are no popular garden cultivars, but the species itself is quite variable and can provide a natural, wildflower-like appearance in the garden.CC BY-SA 4.0