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Prostrate Sandmat

Chamaesyce prostrata

Last reviewed: June 2026

Prostrate Sandmat (Chamaesyce prostrata)
Photo: Forest & Kim Starr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

2"–8" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Native to

LA

Prostrate sandmat is a low-growing annual that forms small mats along the ground. This tiny native plant produces inconspicuous flowers from spring through fall and thrives in poor, sandy soils with minimal water.

In an HOA neighborhood

Prostrate Sandmat takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Extremely small size makes it appear weedy
  • Annual nature means it dies back completely
  • Prostrate growth habit looks like unwanted ground cover

Wildlife value

While specific pollinator data is limited, this plant's extended bloom period from April through October likely provides nectar for small native bees and other tiny beneficial insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Prostrate Sandmat need?
Prostrate Sandmat grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Prostrate Sandmat bloom?
Prostrate Sandmat blooms in April, May, June, July, August, September, and October.
Where is Prostrate Sandmat native?
Prostrate Sandmat (Chamaesyce prostrata) is native to LA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Prostrate Sandmat HOA-friendly?
Prostrate Sandmat takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Prostrate Sandmat? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz