Virginia glasswort, American glasswort, pickleweed, sea asparagus
Salicornia virginica
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Edible succulent used fresh in salads or cooked. Salt-tolerant and can be used in greywater filtration systems or salt-affected soil remediation. Can be grown as a ground cover. Young stems are the most tender and flavorful. Harvesting encourages branching and further growth.
Permapeople description
A succulent perennial plant that grows in salt marshes and tidal flats. It is edible and has a salty, crisp flavor.
Botanical description
Salicornia virginica is a perennial herbaceous succulent plant in the Amaranthaceae family. It forms dense mats up to 30cm tall. Stems are jointed and fleshy, lacking true leaves; instead, the stems are photosynthetic. Flowers are inconspicuous, embedded in the stem joints. It thrives in saline environments such as salt marshes and coastal areas. Color ranges from bright green to red depending on environmental conditions.
Companion planting
Grows well with other salt-tolerant plants such as sea lavender (Limonium spp.) and Spartina grasses. Not typically considered for companion planting with traditional garden vegetables due to its high salt requirements.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through division of established clumps or by seed. Cuttings can also be successful. For seed propagation, direct sowing in the fall or spring is recommended.
History and traditions
Historically used as a food source by coastal communities. The ashes were used as a source of soda ash for glassmaking and soap production. Some indigenous populations used it medicinally.
Usage calendar
Harvesting of young shoots is best in spring and early summer. Flowering occurs in late summer to early fall. Division can be done in early spring or fall. Planting is recommended in spring.