Salicornia Pacifica
Contents
Description
Salicornia Pacifica, commonly known as Pacific samphire or sea asparagus, is a perennial succulent plant native to the coastal regions of North America. It is a hardy plant that thrives in salty environments, making it an ideal choice for coastal gardens and landscapes. The plant has slender, jointed stems that grow up to a height of 30 cm and have a bright green color. The stems are cylindrical and fleshy, and they are often used in salads and pickles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Salicornia |
Appearance
Salicornia Pacifica has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The plant has bright green, fleshy stems that are cylindrical and jointed. The stems grow up to a height of 30 cm and have a diameter of about 1 cm. The plant has no leaves, and the stems are the primary photosynthetic organs. The stem joints are often tinged with red, adding to the plant’s visual appeal. Salicornia Pacifica flowers in the summer, producing small, inconspicuous green flowers.
Care Guide
Salicornia Pacifica is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you grow and care for your plant:- Water: Salicornia Pacifica is a coastal plant that thrives in salty environments. It does not require much water and can tolerate both drought and saltwater spray.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization. In fact, too much fertilizer can harm the plant.- Soil: Salicornia Pacifica prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness zones: Salicornia Pacifica is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salicornia Pacifica is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. To prevent fungal diseases, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Salicornia Pacifica is a coastal plant that is native to the Pacific coast of North America. The plant grows in salt marshes, mud flats, and other coastal environments. It is often found growing in areas that are periodically flooded by saltwater.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salicornia Pacifica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Salicornia Pacifica can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: Is Salicornia Pacifica edible?
A: Yes, Salicornia Pacifica is edible. The stems are often used in salads and pickles.
Q: How often should Salicornia Pacifica be watered?
A: Salicornia Pacifica is a coastal plant that does not require much water. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Salicornia Pacifica?
A: Salicornia Pacifica is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers temperatures between 60-80°F.
Related Plants
– Salicornia Europaea- Salicornia Bigelovii- Sarcocornia Perennis- Salsola Kali- Arthrocnemum Perenne
References
– “Salicornia pacifica – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286017&isprofile=0.- “Salicornia pacifica.” Pacific Northwest Plant Database. Accessed August 10, 2021. http://biology.burke.washington.edu/herbarium/imagecollection/taxon.php?Taxon=Salicornia%20pacificaa.- “Salicornia pacifica.” Calflora. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=7147.
