Etymology: Spergula: from the Latin spargere, "to scatter," from sowing seeds for early forage in Europe
Plants: erect, annual, 4"-12" tall, succulent forb
Leaves: narrow, with small appendage at the base, 6-8 appearing whorled at the nodes in 2 opposite sets
Flowers: white, 5-parted, 1/8" wide; blooms May-Aug.
Fruits: capsule with many roundish, dark seeds
Habitat: dry; woods, forests
Conservation Status: Introduced - naturalized

Flora of North America: Flora of North America USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc.