Mertensia maritima aka Northern Shorewort

Taxonomy

Mertensia maritima, also known as oyster leaf in North America, oyster plant in the British Isles, and sea bluebells, is a species of flowering plant in the borage family. This perennial herb can be found on gravelly sea shores, typically within the reach of the highest winter tides in the Northern Hemisphere. Its distribution extends to the northern parts of Canada, Greenland, and Svalbard. With its maximum stem length reaching 50 centimeters, M. maritima displays fleshy, blue-grey-green leaves, up to 10cm long, and forms branched clusters of bright blue, bell-shaped flowers that emerge from pink buds in early summer.

Common names

Northern Shorewort, Oysterplant, Seaside Smooth Gromwell

How to care for Northern Shorewort

Difficulty

Northern Shorewort presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Northern Shorewort should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Northern Shorewort loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Northern Shorewort thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Seaside Smooth Gromwell.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

Northern Shorewort grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

Region of origin

Northern Shorewort’s native range is Throughout the temperate regions of both hemispheres, including Britain.


More info:
Wikipedia