FAGOPYRUM (from phago, to eat, and Pyros, Wheat; in reference to the seeds being edible). ORD. Polygonaceae. A genus of two or three hardy herbaceous plants. Perianth cut into five equal division, and not increasing in size along with the fruit, like some of its allies. Seed mealy. Leaves cordate or lanceolate. Stems erect, branching. The only species worthy of mention is FAGOPYRUM esculentum. For culture, see Polygonum. FAGOPYRUM esculentum (edible). Common Buckwheat; Brank. fl. pink. Stem 2ft. to 3ft. high, branched. Central Asia; but now naturalised in various parts of Europe. Annual. Buckwheat is principally used in England as a food for pheasants; but on the Continent, and in some parts of the United States, it is largely employed for human food.