Suaeda glauca
Family: Chenopodiaceae
What it is like
Suaeda glauca is a ANNUAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft). It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.
Height (m): 0.6
Where it is found
Saline meadows, solonchaks, sandy and pebbly seashores, refuse dumps and waste ground.
E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea and Siberia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Young leaves and stems - raw or cooked. A crunchy tender texture with a salty flavour.
Oil: Oil
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
The seed oil is used in industry.
Oil: Vegetable oils have many uses, as lubricants, lighting, soap and paint making, waterproofing etc. This does not include the edible oils unless they are also mentioned as having other uses.
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of this country. It is cultivated as a vegetable in China. It dislikes shade, see the plants native range for other ideas on its cultivation needs.
Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in situ.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Moist