Perennial Glasswort

cressa cretica

Also known as: ["Sea Salsify","Glasswort"]

Family: Convolvulaceae Genus: Cressa Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A halophytic plant with succulent stems and small, inconspicuous flowers, native to coastal and saline environments.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","salt tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Solanales
Family: Convolvulaceae
Genus: Cressa
Botanical Name: Cressa cretica

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but thrives in bright light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in the brightest spot possible indoors; outdoors, ensure protection from harsh midday sun only if needed.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Maximize light exposure; rotate plant for even growth; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.

Temperature

Warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); prefers stable conditions, avoiding extremes.

Avoid drafts; maintain stable warmth; protect from frost.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
  2. Let it callus for a day.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep humid and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/leggy growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the soil directly, avoiding wetting the leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in response to sudden temperature changes.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death, especially below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in cold weather; use a heat mat if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting if water and light needs are not met.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Cressa cretica can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogen infection, potentially affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cressa cretica may result from water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Cressa cretica are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Cressa cretica is often caused by excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, which can lead to tissue decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Cressa cretica. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from ingesting Cressa cretica. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Cressa cretica can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from Cressa cretica. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Cressa cretica contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consuming large amounts of Cressa cretica. Wash hands after handling the plant.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cressa cretica edible?

A: Yes, it is edible and has been used in traditional cuisine in some regions.

Q: Does Cressa cretica require much water?

A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions.

Q: Where is Cressa cretica commonly found?

A: It is commonly found in coastal areas, salt marshes, and saline soils.

Quick Reference
Family: Convolvulaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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