Athysanus is a monotypic genus whose only species is Athysanus pusillus, the common sandweed.
It is an annual herb with long, spindly stems on which grow small, unassuming white flowers. The tiny fruits that emerge from the flowers are flat, circular, green, and fringed with prominent white hairs. It may grow up to 15 cm tall[1] and flowers between April–May.
It is native to the western United States and into British Columbia.
Found in moist shallow soil along the slopes and cliffs in lower mountain zones.