Eriogonum corymbosum aka Crispleaf Buckwheat

Eriogonum corymbosum also goes by the name crispleaf buckwheat. It belongs to Polygonaceae, the buckwheat family. This shrub or subshrub stays green all year. It comes from the inland western United States. Its range includes Utah, Nevada, Wyoming, and western Colorado. It also grows in northern Arizona and northwestern New Mexico. In the wild, it grows on dry flats and washes. It also grows on slopes, cliffs, and rock outcrops. It lives among desert shrubs and in open woods. Known sites reach heights of 3,937–8,858 feet [1,200–2,700 metres].

This shrub grows slowly and keeps its simple, undivided leaves year-round. Garden plants reach 1–4 feet [0.3–1.2 metres] tall. They spread about 2–5 feet [0.6–1.5 metres] wide. One smaller size estimate gives a height of just 1 foot [0.3 metres]. These figures show the range of sizes reported for this species. The flowers grow in groups and last well in dryland gardens. The stated bloom season runs from July to August. Each flower has both male and female parts. Bees pollinate the blooms. The plant gives wildlife nectar and seeds.

Grow it in full sun where soil drains very well. Sand or loam suits it, even in poor, lean ground. It accepts soil that is slightly acid, neutral, or slightly alkaline. Wild plants also grow in gravel and clay. Garden plants need little water, though the source lists moist soil too. Do not keep roots wet, as this can cause root rot. The plant can stand strong wind but not exposure to the sea. Published USDA ranges differ. One gives zones 3–9; another gives zones 5–9. It serves as a lasting shrub in dry beds and wildlife gardens.

People have used the leaves and seeds as food. Its food rating is low, so treat it as a minor resource. Clean the seeds, then toast, boil, or grind them. Leaves may taste astringent, giving the mouth a dry, tight feel. Use them with care and in small amounts. The source warns that buckwheat leaves may contain oxalates and tannins. These cautions do not give an overall safety rating. Past uses include leaf-based remedies for headaches and skin complaints. People have also used root-based remedies for diarrhea. These records show past use, not proof that treatments work. You can grow plants from seed. Take care when dividing plants, since disturbing their roots causes problems.