Petalonyx thurberi – “Sandpaper Plant”

Also Known As: Thurber Sandpaper Plant, Honeybush
Family: Loasa (Loasaceae)
Bloom Period: May-Sep
Form: Perennial shrub
Habitat: Sandy or gravelly locations on the flats and in the foothills
Leaves: Linear, lanceolate or triangular; alternate
Translation: “Petalonyx” is Greek for “claw-petaled,” which aptly describes the flowers; “thurberi” is named for Dr. George Thurber (1821-1890), who was known as “the most accomplished horticulturist in America.”
Notes: The rough texture of this plant’s leaves do indeed feel just like a fine-grade sandpaper. The white “claw-petaled” flowers are tiny but smell very sweet.
Animal Associations: The common name, “Honeybush,” refers to this plant’s popularity with bees, including the Honey Bee.