Polycarpon tetraphyllum
# Polycarpon tetraphyllum

Polycarpon tetraphyllum, commonly known as four-leaved allseed (also fourleaf allseed or fourleaf manyseed), is a plant of the family Caryophyllaceae. An annual herb growing to 15 cm in height, it is found on sandy soils, in coastal areas and on wasteland. Native to Europe, it is also naturalised in parts of North America, Australia and elsewhere. It is rare in Britain, except in the Scilly Isles.

## Description

Polycarpon tetraphyllum is a prostrate, herbaceous, annual plant. The stems produce many branches, and leaves are obovate and glabrous.

The inflorescence consists of loose clusters of many small flowers at the end of each stem. The seeds are rounded and 0.4 - 0.5 mm long.

## Distribution and habitat

Polycarpon tetraphyllum is native to Southern Europe, the British Isles, the Mediterranean region, the middle east, and the Indian subcontinent. It has been introduced to the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia.

The plant tends to grow in disturbed, shady areas. It is commonly found as a weed growing in crevices in roads, gardens, and fields.

