SafePlants

Pink Sand Verbena (Abronia umbellata) and Related Species

This page provides information about Abronia umbellata, commonly known as pink sand verbena, and other related sand-verbena species.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• Some sources indicate that Purple Sand Verbena is *not* considered safe for children or dogs. (Specifics of the hazard are not provided.)

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Abronia umbellata
• Common Names: Pink Sand Verbena, Beach Sand Verbena, Purple Sand Verbena
• Family: Nyctaginaceae (Four O'Clock Family)
• Synonyms: The text mentions several related species and synonyms, including:
  • Abronia angustifolia Greene (Narrow-leaf sand-verbena)
  • Abronia angustifolia var. arizonica
  • Abronia torreyi

Distribution and Habitat

• Abronia umbellata is native to coastal areas.
• Abronia villosa (Desert Sand Verbena) occurs throughout the Mojave Desert. It grows in open, sandy areas.
• The plants are observed in locations such as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California.
• Yellowstone sand verbena, Abronia ammophila, is restricted to stabilized sand sites.
• Desert sand-verbena is common on stabilized dunes.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Beach Sand Verbena (Abronia umbellata) is described as a prostrate perennial.
• It has slightly succulent leaves.
• It produces attractive rose-colored flowers with white centers.
• Abronia umbellata grows close to the ground, forming low mats. The reddish purple stems may reach lengths of 3 feet or more. The spherical flowers are fragrant.
• Abronia angustifolia is an annual with fragrant, vibrant purple to rose-pink flowers in dense clusters.
• Desert Sand Verbena (Abronia villosa) are sticky, hairy creepers that have flower stalks up to 10 inches long.
• Some sources describe Abronia species as having fleshy, oval-shaped leaves and reddish stems.

Ecological Role

• Beach Sand Verbena tolerates seaside conditions and makes a good ground cover for undisturbed sandy coastal areas.

Quirky Facts

• Flowers are fragrant at night.
• Horseweed pink sand verbena appeared psychedelic in some locations off Geology Road.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The flowers are visited by birds and bees.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• Encyclopedia of Life: Includes distribution information for Abronia umbellata.
• CalPhotos: Contains photographs of Abronia umbellata.
• USDA Plants Database
• Discover Life