Cushion buckwheat facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cushion buckwheat |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| var. ovalifolium | |
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Eriogonum
|
| Species: |
ovalifolium
|
Eriogonum ovalifolium is a type of wild buckwheat plant. It is often called cushion buckwheat because it grows in a low, cushion-like shape. This plant grows naturally across western North America, from California all the way to Alberta, Canada. You can find it in many different plant communities and places.
Contents
What Does It Look Like?
Cushion buckwheat is a strong plant that lives for many years (a perennial herb). It often forms dense mats on rocky or gravelly ground. From these mats, tall flower stalks can grow up to 35 centimeters (about 14 inches) high.
The leaves at the bottom of the plant are round and feel soft and woolly. They are usually pale green or gray. These leaves have small stems called petioles that connect them to the main plant.
The flowers grow in bunches. They can be many different colors, including yellow, light red, pink, purple, or white.
Different Types of Cushion Buckwheat
There are several different types, or varieties, of cushion buckwheat. Scientists have identified between four and eleven varieties. Here are two special ones:
Cushenbury Buckwheat
One variety is called Eriogonum ovalifolium var. vineum, also known as the Cushenbury buckwheat. This plant grows only in the San Bernardino Mountains in San Bernardino County, California. It is listed as an endangered species by the United States government. This means it is at high risk of disappearing forever. The biggest danger to this plant is from activities like mining, which can harm its natural home.
Steamboat Buckwheat
Another variety is Eriogonum ovalifolium var. williamsiae, or the steamboat buckwheat. This type of buckwheat is found only in the Steamboat Hills, near Reno, Nevada. It is also an endangered species. While efforts have been made to protect it, there are still only a few small groups of these plants left.
Images for kids
-
Variety nivale grows in high mountain areas west of the Rocky Mountains. Its leaves are covered with thick, white, woolly hairs.
