Thysanocarpus curvipes, commonly known as sand fringepod or lacepod, is an annual herb native to a variety of habitats including grasslands, open woodlands, and chaparral regions of western North America, from British Columbia to Baja California. It typically grows to a modest height of up to 31 inches tall, either producing a single stem or branching out. The foliage consists of lance-shaped leaves that can vary in size. During its flowering season, which occurs in spring, Thysanocarpus curvipes produces an inflorescence of delicate white or occasionally purple-tinged flowers. Its most distinctive feature is the fruit, a flattened, disc-like capsule surrounded by a thin, translucent wing, which can be quite variable in appearance and contributes to the plant’s common name due to its fringed look.

Sand fringepod is appreciated for its unique seed pods that add textural interest to wildflower gardens and naturalized areas. It is easy to grow and maintain, often self-seeding in suitable conditions. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soils. While it is not commonly used in formal garden settings, it is an excellent choice for native plant gardens, restoration projects, and xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance. Gardeners should be aware that in some conditions, it may become weedy.CC BY-SA 4.0