National Collection Spotlight: Ruby Valley Buckwheat

Ruby Valley Buckwheat (Eriogonum argophyllum) is a critically imperiled buckwheat endemic to a single valley: Ruby Valley, Nevada. This Nevada endemic species sports a brilliant spherical yellow flower, much like the silhouette of a firework—a perfect choice to ring in the New Year. Ruby Valley Buckwheat is protected by the state of Nevada, and the one population known to exist is on private land. Although past threats to this species included potential geothermal development and recreational activities, a cooperative agreement with the private landowner has helped to mitigate risk and protect Ruby Valley Buckwheat.

Eriogonum argophyllum is secured in the CPC National Collection at Red Butte Garden in Salt Lake City, Utah, and the National Laboratory for Genetic Resources Preservation (NLGRP). In 2011, Red Butte Garden collected seed from the only known population of this species for storage at their seed bank and at NLGRP. Red Butte Garden staff have also germinated seed from this rare plant and grown seedlings to maturity in their greenhouse.

Learn more about conservation actions taken for Ruby Valley Buckwheat on its National Collection Plant Profile, and help support critical conservation work for this species at Red Butte Garden with a Plant Sponsorship.