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Spread Sandwort

Arenaria lanuginosa

Last reviewed: June 2026

Spread Sandwort (Arenaria lanuginosa)
Photo: Alex Abair / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

2"–12" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AZ, CA, CO and 12 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Spread sandwort is a low-growing native perennial that forms dense mats of small foliage. It produces delicate white flowers from May through July and thrives in partial sun with minimal water requirements.

In an HOA neighborhood

Spread 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.

  • Very informal spreading habit can appear unkempt
  • May be perceived as weedy due to small size and groundcover nature
  • Unknown leaf retention could mean winter dormancy issues

Wildlife value

This plant supports native bees and beetles during its summer blooming period. Its low growth habit provides ground-level habitat for beneficial insects.

Common questions

How much sun does Spread Sandwort need?
Spread Sandwort grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Spread Sandwort bloom?
Spread Sandwort blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Spread Sandwort native?
Spread Sandwort (Arenaria lanuginosa) is native to AL, AZ, CA, CO and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Spread Sandwort attract?
Spread Sandwort draws bees and beetles.
Is Spread Sandwort HOA-friendly?
Spread 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 Spread Sandwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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