Arrowleaf buckwheat (Eriogonum compositum) is a drought-tolerant native perennial in the buckwheat family, generally 12–24 inches tall, with flowering stems sometimes reaching 3 feet. It grows best in full sun and well-drained, rocky or sandy soil, thriving in dry conditions with little summer irrigation once established. Broad, arrow-shaped leaves form low mounds of foliage, while clusters of small cream to pale yellow flowers rise on upright stems in late spring and summer. The long-lasting blooms attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Physical Characteristics

• Leaves: Broad, arrowhead-shaped to heart-shaped basal leaves, typically gray-green above and densely woolly beneath, forming low spreading clumps.

• Flowers: Dense, rounded to flat-topped clusters of tiny cream, pale yellow, or occasionally pinkish flowers; generally blooms May through August.

• Stems: Upright, branching flowering stems, typically 12–24 inches tall, sometimes reaching 36 inches.

• Fruit: Small, dry, three-angled achenes that mature from the flowers and provide seed for wildlife.

Habitat and Distribution

• Native Range: Southern British Columbia south through Washington and Oregon into northern California, extending east into parts of Idaho and Nevada.

• Environment: Dry, rocky slopes, open grasslands, sagebrush communities, and well-drained hillsides, particularly in areas with thin, gravelly, or sandy soils. Excellent for rock gardens, dry meadows, and sunny pollinator plantings.

• Ecology: An important nectar and pollen source for native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, including specialist bees associated with native buckwheats. Its deep-rooted, drought-tolerant growth makes it particularly valuable in low-water landscapes and native plant gardens.