American Pipeweed
Eriogonum inflatum
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Pl. C9BB — Eriogonum inflatum
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IOverview
Overview
American Pipeweed, scientifically known as Eriogonum inflatum, is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in the arid and semi-arid regions of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and parts of northern and northeastern Mexico. This plant is well-adapted to dry and moist conditions, thriving in light (sandy) and medium soils. Known for its edible qualities, American Pipeweed can be enjoyed by harvesting its leaves, stems, and seeds. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to grow up to 0.6 meters tall, making it a notable presence in the landscape while also serving as a valuable food source for those familiar with its use.
Quick answers
What is American Pipeweed?
American Pipeweed, scientifically known as Eriogonum inflatum, is a perennial forb or herb that thrives in the arid and semi-arid regions of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and parts of northern and northeastern Mexico.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
American Pipeweed thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate both dry and moist conditions but generally needs less water once established. This perennial grows to about 0.6 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions, making it suitable for gardens in its native range of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and parts of Mexico. For propagation, gardeners can use seeds or division methods. The edible parts include leaves, stems, and seeds, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow American Pipeweed for the first time
8steps
Start with American Pipeweed as a simple, low-maintenance perennial for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small American Pipeweed plant or seeds, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0, and prepare your garden bed by loosening the soil and adding compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery or sow seeds directly into the ground about 1 cm deep and 30-45 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid waterlogging, but ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely. Keep an eye for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
American Pipeweed prefers full sun and needs little water once established. Prune dead or damaged parts in early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the plant to maintain its shape, removing any dead stems throughout the growing season.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners should avoid.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedStem
Edible uses: American Pipeweed's leaves, stems, and seeds are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the stems are typically used in cooking. The seeds can be dried and ground into a flour for use in various dishes. Skip harvesting parts that may not be fully mature to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Other uses:textiles
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 8 native
Broader regions
native:Colorado, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Arizona, California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c9bbebd7-ab74-4c16-acae-4648127ff277
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