Virginia Glasswort
Salicornia virginica

Family: Chenopodiaceae

What it is like

Salicornia virginica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.3

Where it is found

Salty marshes and beaches.

W. Europe. Eastern and Western N. America.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 1

Leaves - raw or cooked. A salty flavour.

Medicine

Rating: 1

The plant has been used externally in the treatment of arthritic pain, rheumatism, aches, pains and swellings.

Analgesic: Relieves pain.

Other

Rating:

The ashes of burnt plants are used in making glass and soap.

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

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 most parts of the country. There is some doubt over the correct application of this name, it probably refers to S. depressa. The plants native habitat will give some idea of its cultivation needs.

Propagating it: Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed as soon as it is ripe if this is possible, otherwise in spring, in a greenhouse in a light sandy compost. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division might be possible in the spring.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Perennial

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Salicornia depressa Standl.