Family: Caryophyllaceae Genus: Arenaria

Species: Arenaria montana L.

Common Name(s): mountain sandwort, rosy/pink/red sandwort

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Arenaria montana, commonly known as mountain sandwort, is a resilient alpine plant that is native to the mountains of Europe, Asia, and North America. This beautiful yet delicate looking flower is well adapted to survive in harsh mountain environments, in high altitude, low-nutrient soils, with little moisture, and in freezing temperatures and strong winds, where few other plants can grow.

Etymology

Despite its common name, mountain sandwort is not actually a member of the wort family (Plantaginaceae). Instead, it belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family, which includes other well-known plants such as carnations and chickweed.122

The plant’s other common names “rosy” and “pink” sandwort may come from the slightly pink hue that some mountain sandwort flowers have, while the name “red” sandwort may come from the red tint that the plant’s leaves can take-on in autumn.123

Traditional Medicine and Modern Science

The plant contains several compounds that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Some of these compounds are used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including digestive disorders and respiratory illnesses.124

Ecology

Mountain sandwort plays an important role in the ecology of alpine environments. It is an important food source for many insects, including bees and butterflies, and its dense foliage also provides shelter and habitat for other small alpine creatures such as marmots and pikas. It also helps control soil erosion on slopes and hillsides.125