Caryophyllaceae
Arenaria congesta

Ballhead Sandwort

Cushion, small and green. Stems with 2–3 pairs of small leaves. Leaves linear, needle-like, with sharp point, 1/2–3 in. long. Flowers head-like, may be dense or open. Flower sepals with papery edges, often sharply pointed; petals white, longer than sepals. Grows in dry rocky or sandy soils, rock crevices, into high elevations.

  • Rarity: Uncommon
  • Flowering Time: All Summer
  • Life Cycle: Perennial
  • Height: 4--12 inches
  • Habitat: East-Side Forest, Subalpine, Dry Rocky Sites
  • Found In: Wallowas, Steens
  • Native: Yes