SafePlants

Ballhead Sandwort (Arenaria congesta)

Arenaria congesta, commonly known as ballhead sandwort, is a flowering plant species belonging to the pink family (Caryophyllaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• The leaves are described as linear, needle-like, with a sharp point, which could potentially pose a risk of injury.

Considerations for Children

• The leaves are described as linear, needle-like, with a sharp point, which could potentially pose a risk of injury.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Arenaria congesta Nutt.
• Common Name: Ballhead Sandwort
• Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family)
• Synonyms: Eremogone congesta (Nuttall) Ikonnikov
• USDA Symbol: ARCO5

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to western North America.
• Common and widespread in the sagebrush steppe of southern Idaho and Montana.
• Found from foothills to subalpine zones.
• Grows in woodlands and openings.
• Enjoys growing in steppe, meadow, and open forest habitats from valleys to occasionally subalpine zones.
• Observed in locations such as Council, ID and along Forest Service Road #44 in Idaho.

Morphological Characteristics

• Cushion-forming plant, small and green in appearance.
• Stems have 2-3 pairs of small leaves.
• Leaves are linear, needle-like, with a sharp point, ½ - 3 inches long.
• Height: 6-12 inches.

Growth Habits

• Perennial.
• Requires full sun.
• Drought tolerant and requires low watering.
• Can bear very harsh temperatures, even many degrees below zero.

Ecological Role

• A common and widespread species of the sagebrush steppe.

Quirky Facts

• Historically used by the Gosiute as a bowel medicine, indicating a traditional medicinal application for gastrointestinal aid.
• Considered an alpine flower.

Further Information

• Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Arenaria congesta.
• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
• CalPhotos: Contains images of Arenaria congesta.