Standing In Pickleweed

Description

Pickleweed (genus Salicornia, also known as glasswort or sea asparagus) is a native, succulent halophyte found in salt marshes and alkaline flats along the Pacific coast of North America and other coastal regions globally. These low-growing, jointed plants are highly adapted to saline environments by storing excess salt in specialized vacuoles, which causes the stems to turn red or purple in late summer and fall before dropping off to remove the salt. Ecologically, pickleweed is a critical component of wetland ecosystems, providing habitat and food for migrating birds and endangered species like the salt marsh harvest mouse. Historically, it has been used industrially for soda ash production in soap and glass making, and today it is utilized in phytoextraction to remove selenium from contaminated soils. Culinary and medicinal uses are significant; the tender green tips are edible and can be eaten raw in salads, steamed, or pickled, offering a salty, crunchy flavor rich in minerals like magnesium and potassium. In Europe, it is traditionally consumed as "sea beans" or samphire, often pickled with vinegar and spices, while indigenous peoples of California historically used it as a seasoning and vegetable.

Taken By

Dennis Smith

Taken On

August 7, 2026

Tagged

animal bird stork waterfowl crane_bird beak wildlife

Assignments

Wildlife