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mountain sandwort
Scientific Name: Arenaria montana
Family: Caryophyllaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Mountain Sandwort: A Charming Alpine Delight
The Mountain Sandwort, scientifically known as Arenaria montana, is a delightful plant cherished for its delicate beauty and adaptability. Also known as Mountain Daisy or Mountain Starwort, this evergreen perennial is a favorite for rock gardens and ground cover.
Considerations for Pets
- Arenaria montana forms a low evergreen cushion.
- The plant has narrow, glossy green leaves.
Considerations for Children
- Arenaria montana forms a low evergreen cushion.
- The plant has narrow, glossy green leaves.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Arenaria montana
- Family: Caryophyllaceae (Pink Family)
- Genus: Arenaria (can be annuals or usually mat-forming, evergreen)
- Synonyms:
- Arenaria groenlandica (sometimes referred to as Mountain Sandwort, Mountain Daisy, or Mountain Starwort but refers to a different species)
- Minuartia groenlandica (syn. Arenaria groenlandica)
- Minuartia rubella (Name also: Beautiful Sandwort, Red Sadwort, Arctic Sandwort, Boreal Stitchwort)
- Note: The name "mountain sandwort" can refer to multiple species, including Arenaria groenlandica.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to mountainous regions of southwestern Europe, including France and Spain.
- Also found in Greenland and North America (though this likely refers to Arenaria groenlandica).
- Prefers sandy soils.
- Specific locations include:
- Hamilton, Burlington, Waterdown, Dundas, and Oakville in Ontario, Canada.
- Scott Mountain pass in the Klamath Ranges, at the border of Siskiyou and Trinity Counties.
- Mount Mansfield (4393') on the Long Trail.
- Mount Washington in New Hampshire.
- Northern Wallowa-Whitman National Forest.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Forms a low, evergreen cushion of dark green leaves.
- Compact, spreading evergreen ground cover.
- Narrow, glossy green, elliptic leaves.
- Produces relatively large, glistening, star-like white flowers in spring.
- Grows best in well-drained soils.
Ecological Role
- Used in rock gardens as a small-scale groundcover or edging material along pathways.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Cousin of the popular Dianthus genus.
Further Information
- Dave's Garden (website)
- Connon Nurseries CBV (Ontario, Canada)
- The Plant Breeders’ Rights Office