Perfect for California Native, Coastal and Butterfly Gardens
Abronia umbellata or Pink or Purple Sand Verbena, is a prostrate perennial with thick, succulent hairy leaves with pink to purple colored flowers with white centers. It can be found on the west coast of the North America from British Columbia to Baja California. The perianth, or outer sheath holding the flower at the end of the stem, is brightly colored often purplish magenta and the tube can be green or red, making this variety quite distinctive. Unbellata easily hybridizes with other species of Abronia, including Abronia maritima.
Its flower is fragrant at night and attracts moths. It is a favorite for California butterfly gardens.It has a very sweet fragrance, especially at night and is very sticky. They usually grow between February and May. Their season is short, especially if located far from the sea. The silver-gray foliage with rounded palmate shape, adds to the dramatic effect of this wonderful plant.