Etymology: Paronychia: Greek name for "whitlow," and the plant thought to be its cure
Plants: erect, annual forb with smooth, forking stems
Leaves: small, oval, opposite, toothless, often dotted, with obvious stipules
Flowers: green, 5-parted, 1/8" wide, no petals; sepals rounded; inflorescence a dense, branched cluster (cyme); blooms June-Sept.
Fruits: capsule with 1 smooth, reddish-black seed
Habitat: sun; in sandy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 9 USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos Minnesota Dept. of Natural Resources: Rare Species Guide; description, conservation, photos, maps, etc.