Edible Parts: Leaves
Edible Uses:

The edible parts are leaves and seeds. The leaves are more likely a minor green or tea-like resource, while seeds are the more traditional food use. Edible Uses & Rating: Crispleaf buckwheat ranks as a moderate wild food and a high-value ecological plant. Seeds may be gathered where abundant, and leaves may be used cautiously in small amounts [2-3]. Taste, Processing & Kitchen Notes: Seeds can be toasted, boiled, or ground. Leaves are likely tannic or astringent and are better used sparingly, cooked, or as a minor sour/astringent green rather than a salad staple. As with many buckwheats, processing is likely needed to improve flavor [2-3]. Seasonality (Phenology): Flowering usually occurs from summer into autumn, with seeds following late in the season. Shrubby buckwheats often hold dried flower structures for a long time. Safety & Cautions (Food Use): Buckwheat leaves may contain oxalates and tannins, so use in moderation. Seeds should be mature and cleaned well [2-3]. Harvest & Processing Workflow: For seeds, gather dry heads, thresh, winnow, and toast or grind. For leaves, gather young, clean leaves sparingly and cook if harsh. Cultivar/Selection Notes: Some Eriogonum corymbosum forms are grown ornamentally, often selected for compactness, flower color, and drought tolerance rather than food use. Look-Alikes & Confusion Risks: Shrubby buckwheats can be difficult to separate. Leaf texture, inflorescence structure, and range are important. Traditional/Indigenous Use Summary: Seeds of several buckwheats were important traditional foods in the West, and crispleaf buckwheat fits within that broader seed-use pattern [2-3]. Leaves and stems - cooked[46, 61, 161]. The leaves can be boiled, mixed with water and cornmeal and baked into a bread[257]. The stems are boiled, pressed into cakes then dried and eaten with salt[270].

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.


Eriogonum corymbosum (commonly known as crispleaf buckwheat) has a history of medicinal use, particularly among Native American tribes such as the Navajo (Diné) and Hopi, who utilized it for both internal and external ailments. Medicinal Uses and Applications: Headaches: A decoction (boiled extract) of the leaves has been used to treat headaches.Respiratory Issues: The plant has been used to treat coughs and tuberculosis. External Remedies: A poultice of the leaves has been applied to cuts, bruises, swellings, and for removing pus from sores or boils. It has also been used to treat rashes. Internal Ailments: A cold infusion of the root has been used to treat diarrhea. The Navajo have considered it a "life medicine" for treating various internal ailments. Mouth and Gums: It has been used as a mouthwash for sore gums.Obstetrics: Powdered root has been mixed with oil and used as a dressing on a baby's sore navel.Important Safety Information: According to PFAF, all parts of the plant should be treated as potentially poisonous. The leaves can contain nicotine, which can be toxic. It is important to consult a professional before using this plant medicinally. Note: The var. glutinosum is often specifically cited in relation to these medicinal uses. A decoction of the leaves, taken three times a day, is a remedy for headache[257]. The var glutinosum was most probably used[270]. This variety was also used as a treatment for TB, or at least to treat coughs[270].

Ecology & Wildlife: Excellent nectar plant, seed source, and dryland habitat shrub. Excellent dryland landscape plant with long-lasting flowers and strong habitat value.

Special Uses

Attracts Wildlife