Eriogonum thymoides, commonly known as thymeleaf wild buckwheat, is a perennial subshrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of the Pacific Northwest, specifically Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. It typically grows to a height of 6 inches and can spread up to 16 inches wide. This plant is well-adapted to its native habitat, which includes sagebrush steppe, ponderosa pine forest openings, and mountain ridges, often found on shallow, rocky soils derived from basalt and other volcanic materials.

Thymeleaf wild buckwheat has a distinctive appearance with intricately branched foliage that is covered in short woolly or silky hairs, giving it a grayish-green hue. From late spring to early summer, it produces erect flowering stems that rise above the foliage, showcasing clusters of small, variable-colored flowers in shades of yellow, white, and rosy red. The flowers are particularly showy and attract a variety of pollinators. In cultivation, Eriogonum thymoides is valued for its drought tolerance, low maintenance requirements, and its ability to thrive in poor, well-drained soils. It is often used in rock gardens, xeriscaping, and native plant landscapes. Full sun is ideal for this plant, and it requires minimal supplemental watering once established. While generally free of serious pests and diseases, overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0