I live in Tucson, Arizona, USA. Doing my own yard work, I came across this species spread all over my yard. A friend said it was weeds. I hadn’t noticed it before. Searching further, I believe it is Paronychia capitata from Algeria. Amazing how it got in my yard. Looking on the map, there isn’t any documentation that it is in AZ but the conditions seem to be conducive to growth. I’m not knowledgeable regarding plants but looking further, it says it can be used for tea.
Well spotted, @Brenda ! I always encourage observers to document their finds on https://www.inaturalist.org/ , especially if they are unusual and may represent an invasion or range expansion. The naturalist community there can help confirm your species ID too.
Jen
That’s a fascinating find! Paronychia capitata, also known as Algerian Tea, is quite an interesting plant. It’s surprising to see it in Arizona, given that it’s more commonly found in Mediterranean climates. According to some sources, this plant has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, and its leaves can indeed be brewed into a tea. The tea is believed to have anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. It’s amazing how plants can travel and thrive in new environments! If you’re interested, you might want to explore its uses further and even try making the tea. Thanks for sharing!
You can read more about its properties when used as a tead at
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377572555_Antioxidant_and_Anti-inflammatory_Activities_of_Paronychia_Argentea_Algerian_Tea