Sea Thrift, Thrift seapink, California seapink, Interior seapink, Siberian sea thrift

Armeria maritima

Physical Characteristics

Armeria maritima is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

W. Europe, including Britain, from Iceland to N. Spain.

Habitats

Ground Cover; Cultivated Beds; East Wall. In. South Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Edible Uses: Leaves - cooked[177]. Used for slimming[61]. Root[69]. No more details are given[69].

Medicinal Uses

Urinary Sea thrift is rarely used in herbal medicine, though the dried flowering plant is antibiotic and has been used in the treatment of obesity, some nervous disorders and urinary infections[268]. It cannot be used externally as an antibiotic poultice because it can cause dermatitis or local irritation[268].

Known Hazards

None known