Apium prostratum

Apium prostratum, also known as sea celery, is a dicotyledonous plant species in the family Apiaceae. It is native to Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, where it typically grows in coastal areas.

Description

Apium prostratum is a perennial herb that grows up to 50 cm in height. It has a prostrate or decumbent habit, with stems that are either glabrous or sparsely pubescent. The leaves are pinnate, with leaflets that are ovate to orbicular in shape. The flowers are small and white, arranged in compound umbels. The fruit is a small, oval schizocarp.

Distribution and habitat

Apium prostratum is found in coastal areas of Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands. It is typically found in salt marshes, on sandy beaches, and in other saline environments. It is a halophyte, meaning it is adapted to grow in high-salinity environments.

Uses

Apium prostratum has a long history of use by indigenous peoples of Australia and New Zealand. The leaves and stems are edible and have a strong celery-like flavor. They were traditionally used as a food source and as a medicinal plant. Today, Apium prostratum is also used in landscaping for its ability to tolerate salty conditions.

Cultivation

Apium prostratum is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is tolerant of salt spray and can be grown in coastal gardens. It is propagated by seed or by division of the rootstock.

Conservation

While Apium prostratum is not currently considered threatened, its habitat is under pressure from coastal development and sea level rise. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting its habitat and maintaining populations in the wild.

See also

• List of Australian native plants
• List of New Zealand native plants