Frankenia salina (Alkali Heath)

Frankenia salina (Alkali Heath) is a low-growing, evergreen perennial or subshrub spreading from underground rhizomes and often forming dense mats of tiny, somewhat succulent leaves. In mid spring to late fall, small, scattered pink flowers are borne on reddish stems. Alkali Heath is a saltmarsh plant of California and northern Mexico. It can live in sea water or in alkali soils – at salt concentrations that would kill most other plants. The leaves are equipped with tiny salt glands, which concentrate the salt. The desalinated water is used by the plant and the concentrated brine is released onto the leaf surface. As the sun evaporates the water, crystals of salt are left on the foliage. Alkali Heath can be a useful ground cover at the edges of ponds or streams, in bioswales, or in areas of saline soil.

• Grows up to 12 in. tall (30 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in constantly moist, well-drained soils. Prefers sand or sandstone. Tolerates salt spray.
• No serious insect or disease issues.
• Great as a ground cover. A welcomed addition to Mediterranean gardens, coastal gardens, near ponds and streams.
• Propagated by seed. No treatment.
• Native to California and northern Mexico.