Abronia fragrans

Abronia fragrans, also known as snowball sand verbena or fragrant sand verbena, is a species of flowering plant in the Nyctaginaceae family. It is native to the United States, particularly in the Great Plains and western regions.

Description

Abronia fragrans is a perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter tall. The plant has a fragrant smell, which is most potent in the evening. The flowers are white to pinkish, and they bloom from May to September. The plant's leaves are broadly oval to nearly round, and they are covered with sticky hairs.

Habitat and Distribution

Abronia fragrans is found in sandy or rocky soils in deserts, plains, and foothills. It is native to the western and central United States, from Minnesota and South Dakota south to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It is also found in the Canadian provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Uses

The Native Americans used Abronia fragrans for medicinal purposes. The Navajo used it as a ceremonial medicine, and the Lakota used it to treat stomachaches.

Conservation Status

While Abronia fragrans is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, its habitat is being impacted by human activities such as development and agriculture.

See Also

• List of Abronia species
• Flora of the Great Plains (North America)