Glasswort
Arthrocnemum fruticosum

Family: Chenopodiaceae

What it is like

Arthrocnemum fruticosum is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Height (m): 0.6

Where it is found

By the seashore, especially in salt marshes.

S. Europe.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves - raw. A brackish taste.

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

The ashes of the plant, and of allied species, yield soda which is used in making soap and glass.

Potash: Used for making glass, soap and as a fertilizer.

Soap making: Plants used as an ingredient in making soaps. Does not include the essential oils, dyes and oils that are also used in making soap.

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though it is likely to succeed outdoors at least in the milder areas of the country. It is likely to require a sunny position in a well-drained soil.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots. Grow them on in the greenhouse for their first winter and plant them out in late spring, after the last expected frosts. Division.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Salicornia fruticosa. L.