SafePlants

Euphorbia lata (Hoary Sandmat)

Considerations for Pets

• The plant belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family, also known as the Spurge family. Plants in this family are known to contain a milky sap, which may be irritating.
• "Flowers" are about 1/16" wide, which may be a potential choking hazard for small animals if ingested.

Considerations for Children

• "Flowers" are about 1/16" wide, which may be a potential choking hazard for small children if ingested.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Euphorbia lata Engelm. (Accepted Name)
• Synonym: Chamaesyce lata (Engelm.) Small
• Common Names: Hoary Sandmat, Hoary Spurge
• Family: Euphorbiaceae (Spurge Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

• The Hoary Sandmat is found in North America.
• Specific locations mentioned include Oklahoma (OK) and New Mexico (NM).

Morphological Characteristics

• The "flowers" are very small, about 1/16" wide.
• The green nectar glands have an appendage of white fringe.

Traditional Uses

• The plant has been noted as "Navajo Drug (Cathartic)".

Related Species

• Other sandmat species include Whitemargin Sandmat (Chamaesyce albomarginata), Blackfoot Sandmat (Chamaesyce angusta), Roadside Sandmat (Chamaesyce lasiocarpa), Southern Florida Sandmat (Euphorbia adenoptera), Pointed Sandmat (Chamaesyce acuta), Laredo Sandmat (Chamaesyce laredana), Thymeleaf Sandmat (Chamaesyce serpyllifolia), and Spreading Sandmat (Chamaesyce humistrata).

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center