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loosehead sandwort

Scientific Name: Arenaria congesta var. lithophila

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Loosehead Sandwort

Learn about the Loosehead Sandwort, a perennial plant with interesting botanical characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

  • As a subshrub, it may have a woody base or stem.

Considerations for Children

  • While not directly indicated as dangerous, awareness of plant parts is always important.

Scientific Name and Common Names

  • Scientific Name: Eremogone congesta lithophila (Note: Some sources list as Arenaria congesta var. subcongesta or Arenaria congesta var. lithophila, see synonyms below.)
  • Common Names:
    • Loosehead Sandwort
    • Rock-loving Sandwort
    • Rocky Ground Sandwort

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Caryophyllaceae (Carnation Family)
  • Synonyms and Alternative Names:
    • Arenaria congesta Nutt. var. subcongesta (S. Watson) S. Watson
    • Eremogone congesta var. subcongesta
    • Arenaria subcongesta Nuttall
    • Arenaria congesta var. lithophila (Rydb.) Maguire
    • Arenaria congesta var. expansa Maguire

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Loosehead Sandwort is native to North America.
  • Specifically found in:
    • California
    • Idaho
    • Wyoming

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Type: Subshrub, Forb/herb
  • Duration: Perennial
  • Light Requirements: Requires full sun (Sole pieno), needing at least a few hours of sunlight daily.
  • Leaves 3-8 cm long, 0.5-1 mm wide when referred to as Ballhead sandwort: var. congesta

Quirky Facts

  • The "loosehead" in its name refers to its inflorescence, which is loosely arranged.

Further Information

  • Flora of North America, Vol. 5
  • Garden Guides