Bransford, W.D. and Dolphia
Armeria maritima (P. Mill.) Willd.
Thrift seapink
Plumbaginaceae (Leadwort Family)
This plant forms dense tussocks of grayish-green, linear leaves and
pubescent flower stems. Up to 12 in. tall, the flower stems terminate in a small, round
head of pink to lavender flowers. A low plant with a basal cluster of many narrow leaves and, atop a slender, leafless stalk, a globe of pale lilac flowers, beneath which are several broad, purplish, papery bracts. Tussocks of dried leaves are persistent.
It resembles a small onion, but the two families are only related in that they are flowering plants.
Image Gallery:
2 photo(s) available
Plant Characteristics
Duration: Perennial Habit: Herb Root Type: Tap Leaf: Dark Green
Flower:
Fruit: Brown
Size Class: 0-1 ft.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Pink , Purple
Bloom Time: Mar , Apr , May , Jun , Jul
Distribution
USA: AK , CA , CO , OR , WA
Canada: BC Native Distribution: Circumpolar, s. in the U.S. from the Aleutian Islands along the Pacific Coast to s. CA
Native Habitat: Gravelly tundra; coastal cliffs & beaches
USDA Native Status: L48(N), AK(N), CAN(N), GL(N)
Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium
Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Moisture: Moist , Dry
CaCO3 Tolerance: Low
Soil Description: Well-drained soils.
Conditions Comments: The variety californica occurs from Vancouver Island through California
Benefit
Use Wildlife: Bees
Conspicuous Flowers: yes
Last Update: 2007-01-01
