Matted Sandmat - Euphorbia serpens (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images, Toxic)

Matted Sandmat

Matted Sandmat is an annual weed that grows flat along the ground into a matted form. It has a long tap root and hardy seeds, which make it difficult to eradicate. This plant’s sap can irritate the skin and is toxic.

Scientific classification

Species

Matted Sandmat (Euphorbia serpens)

Nances, spurges, willows and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Weeds

Weed or not

Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Spring

Harvest Time

15 cm to 50 cm

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1.3 mm

Flower Size

White, Green, Red

Flower Color

Red, Burgundy

Stem Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Matted Sandmat

Distribution of Matted Sandmat

Distribution Map

Matted Sandmat is originally native to tropical Americas, thriving in regions from Central to South America. It has since become an introduced species across various continents including Africa, Asia, and parts of Southern Europe. The plant has established itself in both arid and Mediterranean climates and has adapted to a range of environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Gardens, yards, orchards, vineyards, crop fields, nursery grounds and containers

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Toxicity

Matted Sandmat is toxic to dogs, cats, and humans through ingestion or skin contact. Its sap contains diterpene esters causing irritation, nausea, and vomiting. Prolonged exposure may increase cancer risk. Prevent pets from accessing matted Sandmat and seek immediate veterinary care if exposed to the sap or any plant part.

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Weed Control

Matted Sandmat is native to the Americas. It is considered weedy in some contexts in its native region and has also spread as a weed throughout the Old World. Matted Sandmat roots along its stems, which allows it to form dense mats that crowd out beneficial species. This species can flower and produce seeds year-round in ideal conditions, which can allow it to spread efficiently, especially as its seeds germinate rapidly. Herbicides have been used to effectively control weedy populations of matted Sandmat. Hand pulling and other mechanical methods are difficult due to rapid establishment of new seedlings.

How to Control It

For matted Sandmat, removal is best accomplished during the growing season, ideally in the spring and summer months. It is crucial to eliminate this weed before it begins to flower and spread seeds. Here are a few organic methods to control it:

Hand Pulling: Though labor-intensive, this method is effective. Water the area first to loosen the soil. Then grasp the weed near its base and gently pull to remove the entire plant, including the roots. Repeat until the area is clear.
Smothering: Place a thick layer of newspaper or cardboard topped with mulch on the area where matted Sandmat is growing. This will block the sunlight, preventing photosynthesis, and kill the plant.
Vinegar Solution: Create a mixture of 10% vinegar and 90% water. Spray this on the plant on a hot, sunny day, which will dehydrate and ultimately kill the plant.
Boiling Water: Pour boiling water directly on the weed. This causes cell damage in the plant, effectively killing it.
Biological Control: Introduce animals or insects that feed on matted Sandmat into your garden. This natural solution can significantly decrease the plant population over time.

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Quickly Identify Matted Sandmat

Low-lying, dense appearance due to small, rounded leaves.

Smooth stems and leaves lacking hairs provide a distinct texture.

Ground-spreading habit with ability to root at the nodes for propagation.

Oppositely arranged, green leaves less than 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) in length.

Inconspicuous greenish-white flowers in small clusters, each about 0.1 inches (2.5 mm) in diameter.

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Care Guide for Matted Sandmat

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Originating from arid regions, matted Sandmat conserves water with high drought tolerance, requiring weekly watering. Thriving in full sun outdoors, it prefers dry climates and well-draining soil, minimizing overwatering issues compared to other species.

Fertilize: Matted Sandmat needs minimal fertilizer, thriving in poor, well-drained soils. Apply fertilizer only when lower leaves show yellowing due to nutrient deficiency. Use half-strength liquid fertilizer to sustain growth for several months.

Propagation: Matted Sandmat is primarily propagated via cuttings as seeds are hard to germinate and short-lived. Use gloves and clean tools when handling cuttings, which should dry for 2-3 days before planting in a soilless medium. Keep cuttings misted and covered, removing for air daily to prevent mold.

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Images of Matted Sandmat

Distribution of Matted Sandmat

Toxicity

Weed Control

Quickly Identify Matted Sandmat

Care Guide for Matted Sandmat

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