Geocarpon glabrum

Geocarpon glabrum, commonly called Appalachian stichwort,[1] is a species of flowering plant in the carnation family (Caryophyllaceae). It is native to the eastern United States, where it has a scattered distribution.[2]

Its natural habitat is areas of siliceous rock outcrops, which include granite, sandstone, gneiss, and schist. In the Cumberland Mountains, this species is a major component of sandstone glade communities.[3] Due to its narrow habitat requirements, this species is uncommon throughout its range.[4]

Geocarpon glabrum is a small, delicate annual. It produces white flowers in late spring and early summer.[5] It is similar to Geocarpon groenlandicum, which it was historically considered a variety of. It can be distinguished from G. groenlandicum by its taller stature, annual habit, upright and not mat-forming growth, smaller petals, and flowers in greater number per cyme.[6] In addition, G. glabrum is found in lower elevations than G. groenlandicum.[7]