Crithmum maritimum

Other names: samphire, rock samphire, sea fennel, rock samphire, sea fennel

Crithmum maritimum, also known as samphire, rock samphire, sea fennel or sea fennel, is the only representative of the genus Crithmum. It is a perennial plant that grows on rocky coasts and cliffs, mainly in the Mediterranean, with a spread to northern Europe on the Atlantic coast. It also grows on the Black Sea and Caspian Sea coasts. It is a typical rock plant that can cope with salt from sea water, so its presence is not offensive at all. You will be pleased to know that its appearance and hardiness have made it popular as an ornamental plant.

Sea fennel is between 30 and 90 centimetres tall. It has stiff, fleshy, green, feathery leaves. The individual leaves are oblong and round at the cut. During June to August, an inflorescence of small white flowers grows from a dense rosette of leaves. After flowering, the fruits form, which look like small yellow balls. It is used extensively in the kitchen, especially the leaves, which resemble the taste of fennel and celery. Sea fennel contains high amounts of vitamin C and minerals. Like fennel, sea fennel counteracts bloating and is a good aid in detoxifying the body.