Sand Verbena
Abronia latifolia
Sand Verbena is a succulent coastal perennial with bright golden-yellow trumpet-shaped flowers in round clusters, essential for stabilizing coastal sand dunes.
Nyctaginaceae (Four O'Clock family)
Long bloom season (May-September), can flower most of year in proper conditions
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: cactus (prickly pear)s and yellow sand verbenas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
An iconic plant of Pacific Coast beaches and dunes, Sand Verbena plays a critical ecological role in stabilizing coastal sands and preventing erosion. The plant exhibits psammophory (coating itself with sand to deter herbivores), demonstrating remarkable adaptation. Indigenous peoples valued its edible roots as an important food source. The plant represents the delicate balance of coastal ecosystems and the importance of native species in protecting shorelines. In Canada, it is threatened with extirpation.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun
Water
Moderate; tolerates salt spray but not regular watering or extreme drought
Soil
Sandy, Coarse to fine sand, Very loose, Free of organic debris, Saline tolerant
Expert Growing Tips
Requires coarse sandy soil with excellent drainage
Cannot tolerate regular watering or heavy/wet soils
Adapted for salt spray tolerance
Grows from stout fusiform roots several feet long
May die back to roots under stress, resprouting when favorable
Not suitable for typical garden soils
Afternoon shade helpful inland
Difficult to grow outside coastal areas
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Coastal gardens and native plantings
- Sand dune stabilization and erosion control
- Rock gardens with sandy soil
- Xeriscaping in appropriate climates
- Ground cover for dry sandy areas
Traditional Uses
- Roots are edible, traditionally eaten by Chinookan peoples
- Roots described as large, sweet, and long (over 60cm)
- Harvested traditionally in autumn as emergency food
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sand Verbena
Is sand verbena a true verbena?
No, despite its common name, Sand Verbena is not a true verbena. It belongs to the Four O'Clock family (Nyctaginaceae), while true verbenas are in the Verbenaceae family.
Can you grow sand verbena in a regular garden?
Sand Verbena is difficult to grow in typical garden conditions. It requires very sandy, well-drained soil and cannot tolerate regular watering or rich, moist soils. It's best suited for coastal areas with maritime conditions.
Are sand verbena roots edible?
Yes, Sand Verbena has large, stout, sweet-tasting roots that are edible. They were traditionally harvested in autumn by Chinookan peoples and used as an emergency food source.
Why is sand verbena important?
Sand Verbena is crucial for stabilizing coastal sand dunes and preventing erosion. Its extensive root system helps hold sand in place, protecting beaches and coastal habitats.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Cactus (Prickly Pear)
Opuntia spp.
Cactus flowers, particularly those of Prickly Pear, produce stunning blooms in vibrant colors despite their spiny protection. These remarkable flowers symbolize endurance, protection, and the beauty that can emerge from life's most challenging circumstances.
Yellow Sand Verbena
Abronia latifolia
Yellow Sand Verbena is a succulent coastal perennial with fragrant golden flower clusters and fleshy foliage. This dune-stabilizing native creates stunning mats of color along Pacific beaches.
Silverleaf Nightshade
Solanum elaeagnifolium Cav.
Silverleaf Nightshade is a striking native wildflower of the American Southwest and Mexico, bearing star-shaped violet blooms against shimmering silver foliage. Deeply entwined in Indigenous medicine and desert ecology, it symbolizes resilience, duality, and the quiet power of endurance.