Winged Buckwheat

Eriogonum alatum

Physical Characteristics

Eriogonum alatum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). It is in flower from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

South-western N. America - Nebraska to Texas, west to Colorado and California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Root Seed Edible Uses: Root - raw or dried for later use[155, 177, 257]. Seed - ground into a powder and made into a mush[257].

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Salve The plant has been used in the treatment of pain and also to make a lotion to treat rashes[155, 257]. A cold infusion of the root has been used to treat diarrhoea and bad coughs[257]. It has also been used as a mouthwash for sore gums[257]. The powdered root has been mixed with oil and used as a dressing on a baby's sore navel[257]. The Navajo (Diné) people consider the species to be a 'life medicine', using a mixture of shredded roots and water primarily to treat internal ailments[270]. The species is used as a ceremonial medicine[270]. The Zuni use it as an emetic for stomachaches[270].

Known Hazards

None known