Jamaica samphire, Saltwort
Batis maritima

Family: Bataceae

What it is like

A small shrub. It is slightly woody at the base. The stems are trailing. It forms roots at the nodes. The leaves are simple, narrow and opposite. They are fleshy. Male and female flowers are on separate plants. The flowers are small and in cone like groups in the axils of leaves.

There are 2 Batis species. There is only one Bataceae genus.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows along the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of tropical America. It prefers saline conditions. It forms large communities in brackish water. It can grow in salty conditions.

Countries/locations it is found in

Anguilla, Brazil, Central America (country/location of origin), Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guiana, Guianas, Guyana, Haiti, Hawaii, Jamaica, Lesser Antilles, Mexico, North America, Pacific, Peru, Puerto Rico, Pan tropical, South America, Suriname, West Indies (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The plant can be cooked and is also used as a pickle. The salty leaves can be eaten in salads. The roots are chewed and sucked for their sweet juice. It can also be used for a drink or to sweeten coffee.

Edible parts

Leaves, roots

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

American saltwort, Saladilla

Synonyms

Batis americana L.; Batis californica Torr.;