Pink sandwort (Arenaria purpurascens, J.B.A.M.de Lamarck & A.P.de Candolle, Fl. Franç., éd. 3, 4: 785 (1805))

Family: Caryophyllaceae

Author: Ramond ex DC.

Bibliography: J.B.A.M.de Lamarck & A.P.de Candolle, Fl. Franç., éd. 3, 4: 785 (1805)

Year: 1805

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Arenaria

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: Pyrenees to NW. Spain, SE. France (Vercors)

Description

Pink Sandwort: A Charming Alpine Gem

The Pink Sandwort, scientifically known as Arenaria purpurascens, is a delightful perennial plant belonging to the family Caryophyllaceae. This captivating species, with its delicate and vibrant blossoms, was first described in detail in 1805 by the renowned botanists J.B.A.M.de Lamarck and A.P.de Candolle in their seminal work “Flore Française, troisième édition”.

Hailing from the majestic mountain ranges of the Pyrenees and extending to the northwest regions of Spain and southeast France, notably the Vercors, Pink Sandwort thrives in alpine and subalpine environments. The plant is well-adapted to the rocky and calcareous soils typical of these regions, often found adorning crevices and steep, grassy slopes.

One of the most striking features of Arenaria purpurascens is its eye-catching pink to purplish flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer. These blossoms, though small, are abundant and create a stunning contrast with the plant’s green, needle-like foliage. The flowers are not only a visual delight but also an important source of nectar for various pollinators.

The resilient nature of Pink Sandwort makes it a fascinating subject for botanists and gardeners alike. It exhibits a robust ability to withstand the harsh conditions of its mountainous habitat, such as strong winds and poor soil nutrients. This hardiness, combined with its low-growing, mat-forming habit, allows it to create lush, colorful carpets that are both ornamental and ecologically significant.

Cultivating Arenaria purpurascens in a garden setting can be a rewarding endeavor. It requires well-draining soil and a position that mimics its natural alpine surroundings—full sun to partial shade and protection from excess moisture are key to its successful growth. When given the right conditions, Pink Sandwort can be an exquisite addition to rock gardens, alpine plant collections, and border fronts.

In summary, Arenaria purpurascens or Pink Sandwort is a botanical treasure of the Pyrenees, northwestern Spain, and southeastern France. Its charming flowers and hardy nature not only contribute to the beauty and biodiversity of its natural habitats but also offer significant appeal to enthusiasts of alpine flora.

Common Names

En: Pink Sandwort
Ca: Arenària purpurescent
Fr: Sabline pourprée, Sabline rougissante

Synonyms

• Dufourea purpurascens ((Ramond ex DC.) Gren.)
• Cerastium purpurascens (Fenzl)
• Assoella purpurascens ((Ramond ex DC.) J.M.Monts.)
• Alsinanthus purpurascens ((Ramond ex DC.) Desv.)
• Arenaria cerastioides (Pers.)
• Cerastium ramondii (Fenzl ex Benth. & Hook.f.)
• Arenaria pyrenaica (Rouy & Foucaud)

Distribution

• France (native)
• Spain (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − Thierry Pernot (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 12, 2022 by nicolas duchene (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 2, 2021 by Lilian Cazabet (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2020 by hieracium eriophorum (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 2, 2021 by Lilian Cazabet (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 17, 2020 by xavier font (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 14, 2020 by hieracium eriophorum (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − Thierry Pernot (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Sep 16, 2014 by Tela Botanica − Marie-France PETIBON (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2007 by Tela Botanica − Mathieu MENAND (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − Thierry Pernot (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 5, 2021 by Mauro Sanna (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 24, 2008 by Tela Botanica − Alain BIGOU (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Aug 15, 1996 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2014 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2008 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Taken Jul 15, 2004 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:151613-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5584534)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Arenaria purpurascens Ramond ex DC.)

Specifications

Growth