SafePlants

Chamaesyce glyptosperma (Ribseed Sandmat)

Chamaesyce glyptosperma, commonly known as ribseed sandmat, is an annual forb/herb. Other common names include rib-seed sandmat, ridgeseed spurge, thymeleaf spurge, corrugate-seeded spurge, rib-seeded sand mat, ridge-seeded spurge, corrugate seed broomspurge, and smooth creeping spurge.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant produces a milky sap.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chamaesyce glyptosperma (Engelm.) Small
• Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge family)
• Genus: Chamaesyce
• Species: glyptosperma
• Synonym: Euphorbia glyptosperma

Distribution and Habitat

• The ribseed sandmat is native to North America.
• It is often found in dry, sandy, or gravelly habitats.
• It has been observed growing on roadsides, such as in Lick Creek Park, College Station, Texas.
• Its distribution extends to the Midwestern United States.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is an annual plant with a prostrate stem.
• The stems are glabrous (smooth).
• The leaves are cauline (borne on the stem), opposite, and short-petioled.
• Leaves measure 3-15 mm.
• Stipules are separate and thread-like.
• The leaf blade ranges from ovate to ovate-oblong.

Traditional Uses

• The Iroquois have historically used this plant as a gynecological aid to stimulate lactation.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It is documented to coexist with other plant species, such as Amaranthus retroflexus.

Resources

• Discover Life provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Chamaesyce glyptosperma.
• Dave's Garden is a community where people share tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• TERMIUM is the Government of Canada's terminology and linguistic data bank.
• The Chicago Botanic Garden's Seeds of Success program collects photos that may be used and copied.