Crithmum maritimum aka Rock Samphire

Crithmum maritimum is called rock samphire or sea fennel. It belongs to the carrot family, Apiaceae. This perennial grows along coasts in a broad native range. That range spans Macaronesia, western Europe, the Mediterranean, and the western Caucasus. It is native to Britain and Ireland. Wild plants grow on sea cliffs and rocks. They also grow in coastal grassland, shingle, and sand.

Rock samphire forms a low, bushy plant with evergreen leaves. The plant has no hairs and has a succulent form. Its thick leaves have a triangular cross section. RHS describes plants reaching about 1.3 feet [0.4 metres] tall. Its garden size range reaches 1.6 feet [0.5 metres] in height and width. Plants take five to ten years to reach full size. These modest dimensions suit small beds and gravel gardens.

Greenish-yellow flowers form umbels from April through September. These flower clusters offer nectar and pollen to visiting insects. They help give the plant a place in wildlife gardens. The seed pods also have a food use. Sources describe pickling them for their warm, aromatic taste. The foliage adds year-round interest in coastal and informal gardens.

Grow rock samphire in full sun with soil that drains well. Chalk, loam, and sand all suit it. It accepts acidic, neutral, or alkaline soil. Its moisture range runs from dry to moist. RHS rates its hardiness as H6. PFAF lists USDA zones 5–9. It grows in exposed sites as well as sheltered ones. Salt tolerance makes it useful for planting near the sea. PFAF also describes its use in stabilizing coastal sand. Sow seed in autumn to raise new plants. It needs no pruning, and pests and diseases rarely trouble it.

The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Their strong flavour combines saltiness, bitterness, and a hint of fennel. Use them to season salads or make pickles. Young spring leaves are used for pickling and contain vitamin C. PFAF lists no known hazards, though this is not a full safety assessment. The plant also has a history of herbal use. Reported uses include aiding digestion and increasing urine flow. Those reports do not establish that it treats illness. An essential oil from the plant has a use in perfume.