Wasatch Wildflowers: Sulfur Buckwheat (Eriogonum umbellatum)

Photo: Sulfur Buckwheat (Eriogonum umbellatum) – photo: Ashley Brown

WASATCH MOUNTAINS, Utah — Sulfur Buckwheat (Eriogonum umbellatum) is a perennial herb native to Utah and grows throughout the Rocky Mountains and along the western coastline from southern British Columbia to northern California. It is one of many species in the genus of wild buckwheats.

The ovate leaves have smooth edges and grow on woody stems to form a dense mat. Leaves grow between ½ – 1 ½ inches long and have hairy undersides. The tiny yellow or cream flowers grow in ball-like clusters on slender stalks. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall. It’s a popular landscaping plant that is often available at local nurseries.

Sulfur buckwheat is an important food source for birds and provides moths and butterflies nectar. Several species of butterflies depend on the plant to host larvae (caterpillars), including; the Mormon Metalmark butterfly and the Rocky Mountain dotted-blue butterfly.

Sulfur Buckwheat blooms from early summer through early autumn in dry sagebrush, mountain shrub, and aspen communities between 4900 and 12000 feet.