Spergularia macrotheca (Hornem. ex Cham. & Schltdl.) Heynh.

Nomenclature

Spergularia macrotheca is a species of flowering plant in the family Caryophyllaceae, commonly known by the common name sticky sandspurry.

Native Range

It is native to western North America, ranging from British Columbia to Baja California.

Habitat Type

It grows in many types of moist coastal and inland habitats, most often on alkaline and saline substrates.

Specific Habitats

Habitats it can be found in include marshes, alkali flats, beaches, meadows, seeps, and vernal pools.

Growth Form

This species is a perennial herb that grows a narrow stem up to 40 centimeters long, with a woody, thickened base and a taproot. Individuals may grow either erect or prostrate across the ground.

Glandular Hairs

The entire plant is covered in sticky glandular hairs, with a particularly dense concentration in the inflorescence.

Leaf Structure

Stems are lined with fleshy linear leaves, which are sometimes tipped with spines. Each leaf is accompanied by a triangular stipule that can reach up to one centimeter in length.

Flower Arrangement

Flowers grow in clusters at the end of stems, as well as in leaf axils.

Flower Morphology

The small flowers have five pointed sepals and five oval petals that range in color from white to lavender-pink.

Fruit and Seeds

The fruit produced is a capsule that holds tiny, reddish brown winged seeds.