Annual seepweed
Suaeda linearis
Family Chenopodiaceae - emergent vegetation
Distinguishing Characteristics |
Emergent vegetation; leaves small, alternating, fleshy, very narrow, almost needle-like, smooth with a waxy appearance, color green to red, very dense, erect or spread out; stems upright, woody, lower stems usually with dried, withered leaves; leaves attached directly to stem, inflorescence (flower part) in dense spikes, flowers minute, white. |
Similar Species |
Several Suaeda species have been reported found on Texas beaches. The annual seepweed is the most abundant and occurs throughout the northern Gulf of Mexico and the east coast. The coastal seepweed,S. tampicensis, has hairy stems and is found down around Padre Island. The Mojave sea blite, S. nigra (moquinii) is hairy and has short leaves (found around Padre Island). The beach seepweed, S. conferta, has short leaves (<1 in), is a grayish color, and forms dense mats. The Pursh seepweed, S. calceoliformis is distinguished by the horn-like projections on the sepals of its flowers. It has been found in the south Padre Island area and in Galveston and Chambers counties. |
Habitat |
Saltwater marshes, sandy beaches |
Maximum Size |
up to 90 cm (3 ft) |
Other Common Names |
sea blite |
Previous Scientific Names |
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