Antelope Sage, James' buckwheat

Eriogonum jamesii

Physical Characteristics

Eriogonum jamesii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from August to September. 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 - Colorado, Utah and New Mexico.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Analgesic Cardiac Contraceptive Ophthalmic Stomachic Some native North American Indian tribes used this plant as a contraceptive. The women would drink one cup of a decoction of the root during menstruation[213]. A decoction of the whole plant has been drunk to ease the pain of childbirth[257]. The root has been chewed as a cardiac medicine and as a treatment for stomach aches[257]. An infusion of the roots has been used to treat despondency[257]. The infusion has also been used as a wash for sore eyes[257]. The plant has been chewed to sweeten the saliva[257].

Known Hazards

None known