Overview

Crithmum maritimum is a bushy herbaceous perennial in the genus Crithmum, part of the Apiaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.1-0.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Crithmum maritimum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden and wildlife gardens. It is native to Belgium, Flemish Region, Flanders, Desertas, Madeira Island, Porto Santo island, Corvo Island and Faial Island.

About

Crithmum is a monospecific genus of flowering plant in the carrot family, Apiaceae. The sole species, Crithmum maritimum, is commonly known as rock samphire, sea fennel or samphire.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Crithmum

About the genus

Crithmum is a monospecific genus of flowering plant in the carrot family, Apiaceae. The sole species, Crithmum maritimum, is commonly known as rock samphire, sea fennel or samphire. It is found in parts of the Old World and is edible.

Wikipedia contributors, "Crithmum", CC BY-SA 4.0Crithmum

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Crithmum

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Crithmum maritimum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Native to
Belgium, Flemish Region, Flanders, Desertas, Madeira Island, Porto Santo island, Corvo Island, Faial Island

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Crithmum maritimum

Propagation
Seed sown in autumn
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Crithmum maritimum?

Crithmum maritimum prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Crithmum maritimum need?

Crithmum maritimum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

How big does Crithmum maritimum grow?

Crithmum maritimum reaches a height of 0.1-0.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.

Is Crithmum maritimum hardy in the UK?

Crithmum maritimum has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Crithmum maritimum?

Seed sown in autumn.

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