Hudsonia tomentosa, commonly known as Woolly Beachheather or Sand Heather, is a low-growing, evergreen shrub native to the coastal dunes, pine barrens, and sandy plains of northeastern North America, including central and eastern Canada and the northeastern United States. It typically reaches up to 8 inches in height and spreads to form dense mats. This plant is characterized by its tiny, woolly, scale-like leaves that help conserve moisture and its bright yellow flowers, which bloom from May to July and are quite showy despite their small size.

Woolly Beachheather thrives in well-drained, sandy soils and is tolerant of salt spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens and restoration projects. It is often used to stabilize sand dunes and prevent erosion. In cultivation, it requires full sun and can tolerate drought once established, making it a low-maintenance option for xeriscaping. It is also valued for its ability to grow in nutrient-poor soils, where it often forms symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria. However, it can be sensitive to overwatering and does not tolerate heavy foot traffic or other disturbances well.CC BY-SA 4.0