Genus: Crithmum

Common Names: samphire, crest marine

A monotypic genus (only one species) found along the coastlines of most of Europe. C. maritimum is rich in nutrients and antioxidants and is used in several cuisines around the Mediterranean. It was also popularly consumed by ancient mariners before citrus fruits were widely available in Europe and N. Africa.

Distribution: the Mediterranean Basin and Northwest Europe

Crithmum maritimum

Common name(s): samphire, rock samphire, crest marine

Description: perennial; a member of the carrot family found all along European coastlines. Leaves and seed pods are rich in nutrients and antioxidants and it was commonly used among mariners to stave off scurvy before citrus was widely available. Popular as a culinary herb in regions of Italy, Croatia and Greece and common as an additive to pickled foods. Large, showy umbels in late summer become edible seed pods by autumn. Samphire was referenced in Shakespeare's King Lear for the dangerous manner in which it was harvested from English cliffsides.

Height: to 2 ft. Spread: to 2 ft.

Position: full sun and well-draining soil

Uses: culinary- pickling, fresh in salads, antipasto, as a garnish

Winter Hardiness: to 0 F and below

Distribution: W. Europe, Mediterranean Basin, W. Caucasus

Drought: adapted to 5 months of summer drought