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Sea-sandwort

Honckenya peploides

Last reviewed: June 2026

Sea-sandwort (Honckenya peploides)
Photo: Robert Flogaus-Faust / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

CT, MA, MD, ME and 5 more states

Pollinators

beetles, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Sea-sandwort is a low-growing, mat-forming perennial native to coastal areas. This succulent groundcover produces small white flowers from May through August and thrives in sandy, well-drained soils with minimal water requirements. It spreads slowly to form dense patches that help prevent soil erosion.

In an HOA neighborhood

Sea-sandwort 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.

  • Spreading mat growth can appear weedy
  • Very informal coastal appearance
  • May look unkempt compared to traditional landscaping

Wildlife value

This plant provides nectar and pollen for beetles and flies during its extended blooming period. Its low, dense growth habit also offers shelter for small ground-dwelling insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Sea-sandwort need?
Sea-sandwort grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Sea-sandwort bloom?
Sea-sandwort blooms in May, June, July, and August.
Where is Sea-sandwort native?
Sea-sandwort (Honckenya peploides) is native to CT, MA, MD, ME and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Sea-sandwort attract?
Sea-sandwort draws beetles and flies.
Is Sea-sandwort HOA-friendly?
Sea-sandwort 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 Sea-sandwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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