SafePlants

Sand Verbena (Abronia spp.)

Sand verbenas, belonging to the genus Abronia, are a group of flowering plants found primarily in western North America. These herbaceous plants, both annual and perennial, are known for their attractive clusters of flowers and adaptation to sandy environments.

Considerations for Pets

• Some species have stems that are hairy or sticky.
• Some species can be found in gardens or homes.

Scientific Classification

• Genus: Abronia
• Family: Nyctaginaceae (Four-o'clock Family)

Nomenclature and Synonyms

• Accepted Scientific Name: Multiple species within the Abronia genus are mentioned, including:
  • Abronia umbellata (pink sand verbena)
  • Abronia fragrans (sweet sand-verbena, snowball sand-verbena, prairie snowball)
  • Abronia ammophila (Yellowstone sand verbena, Wyoming sand verbena)
  • Abronia elliptica (fragrant white sand verbena)
  • Abronia mellifera (White Sand Verbena)
  • Abronia turbinata (White Sand Verbena)
• Synonyms & Alternative Names:
  • Sweet Sand-verbena
  • Snowball Sand-verbena
  • Prairie Snowball
  • Fragrant White Sand Verbena

Distribution and Habitat

• Sand verbenas are native to western North America.
• They are commonly found in sandy areas, including deserts, dunes, and grasslands.
• Specific locations mentioned include:
  • Mojave Desert
  • White Sands National Monument (New Mexico)
  • Anza Borrego Desert State Park
  • Yellowstone National Park
  • Red Rocks, Nevada
• White sand verbena can be found in creosote bush scrub or pinyon-juniper woodland at elevations of 4000' to 8000'.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Abronia species can be annual or perennial herbaceous plants.
• Stems can be sprawling to erect, hairless, or with stemmed glands.
• Leaves are typically oval to round with entire margins.
• Flowers are often fragrant and clustered together, with a trumpet-shape.
• Flower colors vary, including white, pink, purple, yellow, green, and lavender.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The Sand-verbena Moth is associated with these plants.
• The White-lined Sphinx Moth caterpillar has been observed eating Sand Verbena.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Abronia elliptica.