Glasswort, Salicornia
arthrocnemum macrostachyum
Also known as: ["Salicornia macrostachya","Salicornia perennis subsp. macrostachyum"]
Overview
A halophytic (salt-tolerant) succulent plant native to coastal and saline environments, characterized by fleshy, jointed stems and small, inconspicuous flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","salt tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Arthrocnemum |
| Botanical Name: | Arthrocnemum macrostachyum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens or xeriscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very 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 necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight indoors; place in brightest window possible.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; water early in the day to minimize fungal risk.
Soil
sandy, well-draining soil with moderate salinity tolerance
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (20–30°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers temperatures above 10°C; heat-tolerant but benefits from some shade in extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common and reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch stem cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or diseased parts first.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage to reduce disease risk; ensure proper drainage to prevent water stagnation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 5°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; apply a thick layer of mulch to insulate roots; protect from cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicArthrocnemum macrostachyum is generally considered non-toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with typical exposure.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Dogs
Non-toxicArthrocnemum macrostachyum is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with typical exposure.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Humans
Slightly ToxicArthrocnemum macrostachyum contains small amounts of saponins, which can be mildly irritating to the gastrointestinal tract when consumed in large quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Arthrocnemum macrostachyum edible?
A: Yes, it is edible and often used in culinary dishes, particularly in salads and as a salt substitute due to its high sodium content.
Q: How does this plant tolerate salt?
A: It is a halophyte, meaning it is adapted to grow in saline environments and can absorb and store salt without being harmed.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in full sun, sandy or saline soils, and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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