SafePlants

Wedge Sandmat (Chamaesyce deltoidea)

Chamaesyce deltoidea, commonly known as Wedge Sandmat, is a subshrub forb/herb belonging to the genus Chamaesyce.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant produces sap, as it is part of the Spurge family.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chamaesyce deltoidea (Engelm. ex Chapm.) Small
• Common Name: Wedge Sandmat
• Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge Family)
• Rank: Species
• Subordinate Taxa (Subspecies):
  • Chamaesyce deltoidea subsp. deltoidea (Engelm. ex Chapm.) Small
  • Chamaesyce deltoidea subsp. adhaerens (Small) Herndon (Goulds wedge sandmat)
  • Chamaesyce deltoidea subsp. pinetorum
  • Chamaesyce deltoidea subsp. serpyllum
• Varieties:
  • Chamaesyce deltoidea var. deltoidea (Engelm. ex Chapman) Small
  • Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. deltoidea var. adhaerens (Small) Burch (not accepted)
• Synonyms: It's important to note that Euphorbia deltoidea is used as an alternate name, reflecting the historical classification of plants within the Chamaesyce genus under the broader Euphorbia genus.

Distribution and Habitat

• Wedge Sandmat is found in Southeast and Southwest Miami-Dade County.
• It typically grows on bare rock in pine rocklands.
• Specifically, Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. deltoidea can be found growing in rocky pinelands habitat.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• This plant is described as a perennial subshrub forb/herb, meaning it lives for more than two years and has a woody base with herbaceous growth.

Ecological Role and Conservation Status

• Several subspecies, such as Chamaesyce deltoidea subsp. adhaerens, are federally listed as endangered species.

Associated Species

• Wedge Sandmat shares its habitat with other plants such as Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis (Big Pine partridge pea) and Linum arenicola (Sand flax).

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chamaesyce deltoidea.