Leafy California Buckwheat, (Eriogonum fasciculatum var. foliolosum), is one of the four recognized varieties of this widespread species, and the one most often seen in populated areas of southern California. However, it is fairly common throughout central and southern California along the coast and on western side of the peninsular range, where it grows on dry slopes, washes and canyons, at elevations from sea level to 5,200 feet.

This plant is tough and easy to grow, even in very dry conditions. Plant in a well draining sunny site. It shouldn't need supplemental water after established, but it will tolerate occasional summer water better than most extremely drought tolerant California natives. Form is is variable, ranging from more often open and upright in the foothills, to often dense and mounding closer to the coast. As the plant ages, it often develops a beautiful ropy red, brown and gray ropy woody trunk and interesting twisting structure. Produces profuse pink to white and cream-colored flowers as early as March that dry to a pretty red rust color as the soil dries. It sheds its dried flowers and significant portion of its small blade-like leaves each dry season, and is an important plant for creating natural mulch. California Buckwheats are a keystone species for sagebrush scrub ecosystems, and a great choice for wildlife and butterfly gardens.

For further detail please refer to the listing for the main species, Eriogonum fasciculatum.