One of the most diverse and interesting genera in California is Eriogonum , commonly known as the buckwheats. Their diversity here is thought to be due to their relatively recent evolution in California's Mediterranean climate.
Buckwheats are especially diverse and abundant in the desert regions.
In the Northern Mojave, for example, Eriogonum is nearly twice as speciose as the next largest genus, Astragalus . If you happen to like buckwheats, the Eastern Sierra is the place to be. Species from the Sierra, White Mountains, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert can be found within relatively short distances. From March in the desert, through the summer and into October, one can find colorful buckwheats somewhere in the Eastern Sierra region. Many of them also do well in cultivation.