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seaside sandmat

Scientific Name: Chamaesyce polygonifolia

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names: IL (seaside spurge), PA (small sea-side spurge)

       

Seaside Sandmat (Euphorbia polygonifolia)

Also known as Seaside Spurge, the Seaside Sandmat is a fascinating plant with unique characteristics. It is important to note that the accepted scientific name is Euphorbia polygonifolia, but it was formerly classified as Chamaesyce polygonifolia.

Considerations for Pets

  • The Seaside Sandmat contains latex, which is present in the stems and leaves. Contact with this latex can cause skin irritation similar to poison ivy.

Considerations for Children

  • The Seaside Sandmat contains latex, which is present in the stems and leaves. Contact with this latex can cause skin irritation similar to poison ivy.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Euphorbia polygonifolia L.
  • Synonym: Chamaesyce polygonifolia (L.) Small
  • Common Names: Seaside Sandmat, Seaside Spurge, Sea Milk-Purslane, Small Sea-Side Spurge, Northern Seaside Spurge
  • Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge Family)
  • Genus: Chamaesyce, Euphorbia
  • Rank: Species (and potentially subspecies)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Seaside Sandmat is a native plant.
  • It is found in coastal areas, specifically upper beach vegetation and dunes.
  • It is seen on Assateague Island, Maryland.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • It is an annual plant.
  • The stems are reddish or whitish in color.
  • It exhibits a flat, spreading growth habit.
  • Leaves are hairless.

Ecological Role

  • The Seaside Sandmat can be found in the same habitat as Sea-beach Knotweed.
  • It grows in seaside conditions and sandy environments.
  • Other plants in the upper beach vegetation: sea rocket, Dixie sandmat, Russian thistle, and seabeach amaranth.
  • Dune vegetation is characterized by Seaside Sandmat.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • The genus Euphorbia contains over 2000 species.

Quirky Facts

  • The plant contains a unique compound called polygonifoliol, which is a tirucallane triterpene found in its latex.

Further Information

  • Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chamaesyce polygonifolia (Seaside Sandmat).
  • ARKive provides photos and facts about the Seaside Spurge.