Sandhill-rosemary (Ceratiola ericoides, Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 222 (1803))

Family: Ericaceae

Author: Michx.

Bibliography: Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 222 (1803)

Year: 1803

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ceratiola

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. U.S.A.

Description

The Sandhill-rosemary, scientifically known as Ceratiola ericoides, is a distinctive plant native to the southeastern United States. Recognized for its hardy nature, Ceratiola ericoides belongs to the Ericaceae family, which includes many well-known shrubs and bushes.

First described in 1803 by the acclaimed botanist André Michaux in his work “Flora Boreali-Americana” (Fl. Bor.-Amer. 2: 222), this species thrives in the unique conditions of the southeastern U.S., predominantly favoring sandy and well-drained soils which are characteristic of its native habitat. The plant is particularly adapted to the dry, sandy environments of sandhill ecosystems, providing a crucial component to the local flora.

Sandhill-rosemary is an evergreen shrub that plays a vital role in its ecosystem. Its needle-like leaves and robust structure help it withstand the harsh conditions of its environment, while also providing shelter and food for various local wildlife. The plant’s resilience and adaptiveness make it an interesting subject for study in understanding how flora can thrive in challenging environments.

In the landscape, Ceratiola ericoides is not only significant for its ecological value but also for its aesthetic appeal. The dense, heath-like appearance of this evergreen shrub contributes to the natural beauty of the areas it inhabits, painting a picture of resilience and native splendor. The plant’s ecological importance and unique characteristics continue to make it a subject of interest for botanists and nature enthusiasts alike.

Common Names

Eng: florida-rosemary, sand heath, sandhill-rosemary
En: Sandhill-rosemary, Sand heath, Rosemary, Florida rosemary, Florida-rosemary
Az: Seratiola
Zh: 沙石南
Ru: Цератиола

Synonyms

• Ceratiola falcatula (Gand.)
• Empetrum aciculare (Bertol.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Florida (native)
• Georgia (native)
• Mississippi (native)
• South Carolina (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Mar 1, 2015 by EOL − cdmar10 (cc-by)

Taken Apr 20, 2012 by EOL − Jason Sharp (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Jan 3, 2011 by EOL − Homer Edward Price (cc-by)

Taken Oct 4, 2012 by EOL − Jason Sharp (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 21, 2021 by F.L. Bezoar (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Nov 8, 2014 by EOL − Mary Keim (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 26, 2021 by Adam Martin (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 14, 2019 by balu’ (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 4, 2011 by EOL − Bob Peterson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 29, 2021 by K. Sv. (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2888365)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:324754-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ceratiola ericoides Michx.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Subshrub, Shrub, Forb/herb

Growth