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Sea fennel

crithmum_maritimum_-_perce_pierre_02_-_copie.jpg
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© J. Collina-Girard

Description

The sea fennel, also call the rock samphire, colonises the cracks in rock faces, into which it introduces its long roots in order to look for water that it then stores in its fleshy leaves. It has the particularity of adapting very well to high salt concentrations, water deficit, and survival conditions in hostile coastal environments. It grows in compact tufts and has minuscule sprays of whitish green flowers in the summer.

Scientific name

Crithmum maritimum

Where and when can you see it?

  • Natural habitats: Maquis scrubland
  • Flowering season: June to September

Did you know ?

In French it is also called as a “rock piercer” making reference to its ability to grow in the cracks of rocks and old walls.

Conservation stake

Medium

How can I help to protect it?

  • I keep to the trails
  • I look but I don’t touch