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Summary
Physical Characteristics
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.
UK Hardiness Map
US Hardiness Map
Synonyms
Salicornia depressa Standl.
Habitats
Cultivated Beds;
Edible Uses
Edible Parts: Leaves
Edible Uses:
Leaves - raw or cooked[172]. A salty flavour[207].
References More on Edible Uses
Medicinal Uses
Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.
Analgesic
The plant has been used externally in the treatment of arthritic pain, rheumatism, aches, pains and swellings[257].
References More on Medicinal Uses
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Other Uses
Potash
The ashes of burnt plants are used in making glass and soap[207].
Special Uses
References More on Other Uses
Cultivation details
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[270]. The plants native habitat will give some idea of its cultivation needs.
References Carbon Farming Information and Carbon Sequestration Information
Temperature Converter
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Propagation
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.
Other Names
If available other names are mentioned here
Found In
Countries where the plant has been found are listed here if the information is available
Weed Potential
Right plant wrong place. We are currently updating this section.
Please note that a plant may be invasive in one area but may not in your area so it’s worth checking.
Conservation Status
IUCN Red List of Threatened Plants Status :
Growth: S = slow M = medium F = fast. Soil: L = light (sandy) M = medium H = heavy (clay). pH: A = acid N = neutral B = basic (alkaline). Shade: F = full shade S = semi-shade N = no shade. Moisture: D = dry M = Moist We = wet Wa = water.
Expert comment
Author
L.
Botanical References
60
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