Description

‘Theodore Payne’ California buckwheat is a selection of this widespread species introduced by the Theodore Payne Foundation in Sunvalley. It grows densely in a spreading mound to about two feet in height. Its appearance reminds one of low growing rosemary except when covered with white flowers in spring. The flowers of the California buckwheat are a magnet to pollinators of all sorts. The seeds develop in rusty brown heads which may be removed, though a variety of birds feed on the seeds into the winter. ‘Theodore Payne’ prefers well-draining soil and looks fine spilling over a low wall or decorative bolder on a slope.