Spotted Sandmat
Chamaesyce maculata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
RI
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spotted sandmat is a low-growing annual native that forms small mats of tiny oval leaves with reddish stems. It produces inconspicuous flowers from summer through fall and thrives in dry, sandy conditions with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spotted 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.
- Appears weedy and unkempt
- Low profile may look like a weed problem
- Annual nature creates bare spots when plants die
Wildlife value
This plant provides seeds for small birds and serves as a host plant for some moth caterpillars, though it has limited pollinator appeal due to its tiny flowers.
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.
Does Spotted Sandmat fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.