Etymology: Polygonella: diminutive of Polygonum; from poly for "many" and gonu for knee, referring to many joints
Plants: erect, annual, 4"-20" tall forb, thin, wiry; stems branched toward the top
Leaves: narrow with edges in-rolled backward; alternate
Flowers: white to red, 5-parted, 1/8" long, nodding on stalks jointed near the base, petals and petal-like sepals loosely open, 8 stamens; inflorescence 3/4"-1 1/3" terminal, branched cluster (raceme-like); blooms July-Oct.
Habitat: dry; sands, cliffs; in sandy, acidic soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 5 USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos