Glasswort

Glasswort is a common name for several plants in the family Amaranthaceae, which are often found in salt marshes and on beaches. The name "glasswort" comes from the fact that these plants were historically used in glassmaking.

Description

Glasswort plants are typically small, succulent herbs with jointed stems and scale-like leaves. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, often greenish or yellowish. The fruits are small and usually contain a single seed.

Uses

Glasswort plants have a variety of uses. They are often eaten as a vegetable, either raw or cooked. Some species are also used in the production of soda ash, which is used in glassmaking. In addition, glasswort plants are sometimes used in landscaping, particularly in areas with salty soil.

Species

There are several species of plants that are commonly referred to as glasswort, including:

• Salicornia europaea, also known as common glasswort or marsh samphire
• Sarcocornia perennis, also known as perennial glasswort or samphire
• Suaeda maritima, also known as herbaceous seepweed or annual seablite

See also

• Amaranthaceae
• Salt marsh
• Soda ash

References

Glasswort Resources
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