Sea milkwort
Glaux maritima ssp. obtusifolia
Range: Common in coastal BC, less frequent elsewhere; circumpolar, widespread in arctic and temperate NA; Eurasia.
Description: Perennial fleshy herb from a shallow rhizome, stems ascending-erect, several, branched from below, 3-30 cm tall, leafy to the tip. Leaves 1.5-10 mm long, 5-25 mm wide, jointed at the bases; opposite low on the stem, alternate above. Flowers small, inconspicuous, solitary, axillary, 4-5 mm long, white or pinkish, 5-lobed.
Ecology: Tideflats, coastal marshes and beaches.
Notes: Another subspecies occurs in alkaline marshes and inland meadows in BC. It was called ‘milk-wort’ because an infusion could be brewed from the plant and given to nursing mothers in order to increase their milk supply.
Sources:- Eflora
- Pojar, J. and A. MacKinnon. 1994. Plants of Coastal British Columbia: including Washington, Oregon & Alaska. Lone Pine Publishing. Vancouver. 528 p.
Learn about the importance and diversity of our wetlands
Wetlandkeepers is a 2½ day introduction to wetland identification and stewardship. The course offers individuals an opportunity for hands-on practice of wetland conservation skills, such as conducting wetland, plant and bird surveys, wetland mapping and raising public awareness. It is a fun, and often muddy weekend, for all ages. Participants that successfully complete the course are awarded a Wetlandkeepers Certificate.
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