Black Tartary

Family: Polygonaceae Grain

Aromatic, nutty kernels with a dark, inky character—Black Tartary buckwheat brings a deep, earthy richness to every harvest.

The grains develop a firm, pleasantly chewy bite and a fragrant, toasted note that shines in hearty bowls, robust pilafs, and warming porridges, as well as in rustic flours for breads and pancakes. Grow this 75-day variety for a dependable stand and a striking, almost velvety grain color that makes homegrown pantry staples feel truly special.

Light: Full SunMaturity: 75 DaysHabit: Upright

Planting schedules and alerts are optimized for Columbus (Zone 6b).

Crop Dates

Milestone	Date
Start Indoors	Direct Sow
Last Frost	Apr 25th
Transplant / Sow Outdoors	Apr 25th
Harvest Begins	Jul 9th
Harvest Ends	Oct 16th

Crop Details

Trait	Value
Days to Maturity	75
Sun Requirements	Full Sun
Growth Habit	Upright
Support Needed	None
Planting Depth	Normal
Germination Temp (°F)	60
Min Soil Temp (°F)	50
Min Night Temp (°F)	35
Harden Off (days)	Not Required

Culinary Notes

Chef's Note

Black Tartary buckwheat cooks up firm and chewy, with that toasted, almost inky earthiness that stands without needing much to prop it up. Use it where you want texture to matter—bowls, pilafs, and dark, hearty flours—not where you’d rather the grain melt away.

Best Uses

warm soba-style bowls with a slick soy-based dressing
toasted buckwheat pilaf where the grains stay separate and chew-forward
thick, warming porridge that grips the spoon (not watery)
rustic buckwheat flour for pancakes and quick breads with a deep, dark crust

Flavor Profile

toasty, nutty buckwheat aroma inky-dark, earthy savoriness pleasantly chewy kernel bite slightly floral, aromatic finish

Kitchen Pairings

goat cheese mushrooms black pepper butter soy sauce honey

Frequently Asked Questions

What pest or disease commonly affects Fagopyrum tataricum (black Tartary buckwheat), and how can I control it in my garden?

The most common issue is fungal leaf blight during humid weather, often showing as spreading brown or dark leaf spots. Remove and discard infected leaves early, improve airflow by thinning if plants are overcrowded, and avoid overhead watering so foliage stays dry. If conditions stay wet for several days, use a labeled organic copper spray and repeat according to the label’s timing.

How often should I water black Tartary buckwheat during the main growing phase?

Keep soil consistently lightly moist from germination through early flowering, typically watering about 1–2 times per week depending on rainfall and heat. Aim for top 1–2 inches of soil moisture—water more when the surface dries out, but don’t keep beds soggy. Once flowering is established, reduce slightly to avoid root issues while still preventing the soil from drying hard.

How do I tell when black Tartary buckwheat is ready to harvest?

Harvest when most seeds on the upper and mid plant sections have turned dark and look fully formed, but before they all shatter. Typical timing is around 70–75 days from sowing, with plants turning from lush green to more straw-like as maturity approaches. Test by rubbing a few seed heads—seeds should come out easily and be dark.