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ballhead sandwort

Scientific Name: Arenaria congesta var. crassula

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Arenaria congesta (Ballhead Sandwort)

Arenaria congesta, commonly known as ballhead sandwort or capitate sandwort, is a flowering plant species belonging to the pink family.

Considerations for Pets

  • The leaves of Arenaria congesta are linear and needle-like, with a sharp point, which might pose a minor physical hazard.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Arenaria congesta Nutt.
  • Common Name: Ballhead sandwort, Capitate sandwort
  • Synonym: Eremogone congesta (Nuttall) Ikonnikov
  • Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family)
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species, Variety (e.g., Arenaria congesta var. congesta, Eremogone congesta var. cephaloidea)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to western North America.
  • Found in locations such as Council, ID; Cook Springs, southern Idaho, and Montana.
  • Observed in Washington State.
  • Grows in steppe, meadow, and open forest habitats.
  • Found from valleys to subalpine zones, foothills to subalpine woodlands, and openings.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Forms a cushion-like, small, and green plant.
  • Stems have 2-3 pairs of small leaves.
  • Leaves are linear, needle-like, with a sharp point, measuring 1/2 to 3 inches.
  • Height: Typically grows to 6-12 inches.

Ecological Role and Cultivation

  • Enjoys full sun exposure.
  • Requires low water and is drought-tolerant.
  • Can bear very harsh temperatures, even many degrees below zero.
  • The aerial part of the plant may dry during the coldest periods, developing again later.

Traditional Uses

  • The Gosiute people used the plant as a gastrointestinal aid, specifically as a bowel medicine.

Related Resources

  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
  • USDA Plants database (Species Code: ARCO5)
  • Discover Life page about Arenaria congesta
  • CalPhotos
  • NIISS.org (for species profile, habitat, control, invasion information)