Question: Can you identify this plant for me? Caryophyllaceae was the closest I got with the Dichotomous Key but I did …
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Question
Can you identify this plant for me? Caryophyllaceae was the closest I got with the Dichotomous Key but I did not find a genus or species that fit well. It was prostrate, growing in disturbed sandy soil along with Scleranthus annuus. Location is near Quonochontaug Breachway in Charlestown, RI. I would guess it is non-native? Flowers are about 3mm across. Calyx is glandular. Leaves are succulent, round in cross-section, with sharp tips.
Answer
Dear suecar, your plant is indeed in the Caryophyllaceae. It is Spergularia rubra (red sand-spurry), a non-native species frequently found in dry, sandy, and often human-disturbed habitats. Best wishes.
