Bassora saltwort
suaeda vera
Also known as: ["Bassora seepweed","common seepweed"]
Overview
A halophytic shrub native to coastal and saline environments, characterized by fleshy, succulent leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","salt tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Suaeda |
| Botanical Name: | Suaeda vera |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or xeriscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to very fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, or loamy soil with good drainage; cactus mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates intense light but benefits from some afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure proper ventilation if indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun lover; avoid deep shade; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
sandy, well-drained, slightly alkaline soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–8.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Warm to hot temperatures (20–35°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
rarely required, every 3 months with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if needed
Use sparingly; avoid high nitrogen; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (60–70%).
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; trim roots if pot-bound; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose right pot size; prepare new soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand, perlite, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in growing season (spring/summer); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSuaeda vera is generally non-toxic to cats. While the seeds are not poisonous, consuming them in large quantities may cause mild digestive disturbances due to their high fiber content. No severe toxic effects have been reported in cats.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicSuaeda vera is not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large amounts of seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to their fibrous nature. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that pose a significant risk to dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicSuaeda vera, commonly known as shrubby seepweed, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of its seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content. No significant toxic effects have been documented in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Suaeda vera edible?
A: Some parts of Suaeda vera have been used traditionally for food, but caution is advised due to potential toxicity.
Q: How does Suaeda vera adapt to saline conditions?
A: It is a halophyte, meaning it has physiological adaptations to thrive in high-salinity environments.
Q: Does Suaeda vera require special care?
A: It is relatively low-maintenance but thrives best in full sun and well-drained, saline soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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