Long-stem wild buckwheat (Eriogonum elongatum, Bot. Voy. Sulphur: 45 (1844))

Family: Polygonaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: Bot. Voy. Sulphur: 45 (1844)

Year: 1844

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Eriogonum

Vegetable: False

Observations: W. & SW. California to Mexico (Baja California)

Description

Long-stem wild buckwheat, scientifically named Eriogonum elongatum, is a captivating and resilient plant belonging to the Polygonaceae family. This extraordinary species was first documented by the renowned botanist George Bentham in 1844, as part of his significant contributions recorded in Bot. Voy. Sulphur.

Eriogonum elongatum is indigenous to the diverse and ecologically rich regions of Western and Southwestern California, extending its habitat towards the northern areas of Mexico, particularly Baja California. This geographical span exposes the plant to a variety of climatic conditions, from coastal to desert environments, highlighting its adaptability and hardiness.

The distinguishing feature of the long-stem wild buckwheat is its elongated stems, which provide the plant with its common name. These stems support clusters of small, often white or pinkish flowers, which bloom primarily in the warmer months. The foliage, predominantly basal, consists of narrow, often linear leaves that are characteristic of many plants within the Polygonaceae family.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Eriogonum elongatum plays an essential role in its native ecosystems. It serves as a crucial source of nectar for various pollinators, including bees and butterflies, thus contributing significantly to the biodiversity and ecological balance of the areas it inhabits. Its ability to thrive in harsh and arid conditions makes it a vital plant for soil stabilization and erosion control in its native habitats.

For botanists, ecologists, and plant enthusiasts alike, the long-stem wild buckwheat offers a fascinating subject of study. Its resilience, ecological significance, and the delicate beauty of its blossoms encapsulate the intricate and often understated wonders of native plant species.

Common Names

Eng: long-stem wild buckwheat, longstem buckwheat
En: Long-stem wild buckwheat, Longstem buckwheat

Synonyms

Distribution

• California (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jan 11, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jul 19, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jul 19, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 22, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 11, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Habit

Taken Dec 5, 2012 by EOL − martin_214 (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 12, 2015 by EOL − marinnaw (cc-by-nc)

Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Zylstra, J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Zylstra, J. (cc-by-nc-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jan 12, 2009 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 30, 2015 by EOL − Jesse Rorabaugh (cc-by)

Taken Jan 11, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Jan 11, 2009 by EOL − Keir Morse (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2889552)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:694140-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eriogonum elongatum Benth.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb, Subshrub

Growth