Skip to product information
1 of 4

Wild About Flowers

Eriogonum androsaceum - Cushion Umbrella Plant

Eriogonum androsaceum - Cushion Umbrella Plant

$6.75 CAD
Product Options

Cushion Umbrella Plant is a compact, drought-tolerant perennial with dense clusters of creamy white flowers that gradually fade to pink as they mature. Blooming from late spring through summer, it offers a long-lasting nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Its low, cushion-like form and small, leathery, blue-green leaves ”flushing bright orange in the fall” make it a striking addition to rock gardens, xeriscapes, and dry prairie plantings.

Exceptionally resilient, it excels at erosion control on slopes and disturbed sites, thriving in dry, rocky soils with minimal moisture. Found on alpine meadows, well-drained grasslands, and arid slopes, it performs well in both rural and urban settings where tough, attractive, low-maintenance plants are needed. The dense mat-forming habit and leathery foliage offer limited appeal to browsing animals, making it naturally resistant to deer in most settings.

Bloom Times & Plant Sizes

Important Information - The "Bloom Period" is an indicator of the time period within which the wildflowers will bloom and does not describe the time period that a single plant will bloom.  The "Sizes" listed are intended to be a general guideline to consult during plant selection. - Plant growth and bloom times will vary depending on geographical location & individual site conditions.

Edible & Medicinal Info Disclaimer

The Edible & Medicinal information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not be acted on without thorough research and professional guidance. We are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of or misidentification of plants.

View full details

Plant Specifics

Seeds Per Pack

Seed packs are currently unavailable.

Light Conditions

  • Sun

Soil Conditions

  • Well Drained
  • Sandy
  • Gravelly
  • Seasonally Moist

Height

  • Under 6"

Width

  • Under 6"
  • Under 12"

Bloom Colour

  • White
  • Pink

Month of Bloom

  • June
  • July
  • August

Vigorousness

  • Moderate
  • Slow

Deer Resistance

  • High

Features

  • Butterflies
  • Bees
  • Long Bloom Time
  • Attractive Seed Heads
  • Fall Color
  • Urban Spaces
  • Rural Spaces
  • Medicinal Properties
  • Good in Containers

Chinook Exposure

  • Fully Exposed

Distribution Info

Native to western Canada and some northern states, Cushion Umbrella Plant is found throughout AB, SK and BC, and is found in the western U.S.

Traditional Edible & Medicinal Info

Eriogonum androsaceum was traditionally used by Indigenous peoples as an anti-inflammatory infusion for sore throats and fevers, while crushed leaves were applied to cuts and skin irritations for wound care. It was also used to ease mild stomach discomfort, and though not toxic, excessive consumption may cause digestive upset.