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Samphire is a succulent coastal plant that grows in saline areas that flood and is well-adapted to high salt levels. It is a seawater plant that thrives when watered with a saline solution. It grows in poor, sandy soil and can reach anywhere from 20 to 50 cm in height. There are two main varieties of samphire: marsh samphire (Salicornia europaea) and rock samphire (Crithmum maritimum). Marsh samphire grows in muddy or sandy marshes along coastlines and has vibrant green, jointed stems with small, fleshy leaves. Rock samphire, on the other hand, thrives on rocky cliffs near the sea and has fern-like leaves. In this guide, we will explore the different methods for growing samphire in Australia, including the ideal growing conditions, soil type, and harvesting techniques.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Sarcocornia quinqueflora |
| Common Name | Samphire, Sea Asparagus, Pilgilli |
| Variety | Marsh Samphire, Rock Samphire |
| Plant Type | Small shrub, Grass or grass-like |
| Width | 0.5 |
| Flowering Time | Panicles for long periods of the year |
| Soil Type | Sandy, Sandy loam, Clay loam, Saline, Poor soil |
| Climate Zone | Sub-tropical, Warm temperate, Cool temperate, Mediterranean |
| Growth Habit | Evergreen, Open foliage, Spreading |
| Height | 20-50 cm |
| Watering | Saline solution with sea salt |
| Harvest Time | Late spring/summer |
| Growing Season | October to March |
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What You'll Learn
Marsh samphire vs rock samphire
Samphire is a succulent coastal plant that grows in rocky and marshy areas near saltwater sources. It has two main varieties: marsh samphire and rock samphire.
Marsh Samphire
Also known as glasswort, marsh samphire grows in muddy or sandy marshes along coastlines. It features vibrant green, jointed stems with small, fleshy leaves. Its taste is salty and crisp, making it ideal for salads, pickles, and as a side dish for seafood. It grows well in pots or in the ground but needs seawater or water mixed with sea salt to be added during watering. It is also known as sea asparagus, picklewort, or baby asparagus.
Rock Samphire
Rock samphire, also called sea fennel, thrives on rocky cliffs near the sea. It has distinct, fern-like leaves and a more pungent, aromatic flavour compared to marsh samphire. It is a prized ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, adding a unique flavour to various dishes. Rock samphire is harder to access as it usually grows in high, out-of-the-way places. It is part of the carrot family and resembles a green deer antler.
Growing Samphire in Australia
When growing samphire in Australia, it is important to mimic its natural habitat by providing a sandy soil and salty environment. This can be achieved by using a seaweed solution or a mild saline solution with sea salt for watering. It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground and prefers full sun. The growing season is from October to March, and the crop is typically harvested in late spring or summer when the shoots are bright green and plump.
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Soil and environment
Samphire is a seawater plant that thrives in a warm, sunny, and salty environment. It grows well in poor, sandy, free-draining soil and can reach a height of 30 to 50 cm. It is a succulent coastal plant that grows naturally along coastlines, in muddy or sandy marshes, and on rocky cliffs. It can also be found in marshy locations inland, in salty mud flats, and in swampy areas.
There are two main varieties of samphire: marsh samphire (*Salicornia europaea* or *Salicornia* sp.) and rock samphire (*Crithmum maritimum* or *Chrithmum maritinum*). Marsh samphire, also known as glasswort, grows in muddy or sandy marshes along coastlines. It has vibrant green, jointed stems with small, fleshy leaves and a salty, crisp taste. Rock samphire, also called sea fennel, thrives on rocky cliffs near the sea. It has fern-like leaves and a more pungent, aromatic flavour compared to marsh samphire.
When growing samphire, it is important to mimic its natural habitat by using salty water. It is recommended to add one teaspoon of sea salt to every pint of water used for watering. Be sure to use proper sea salt rather than table salt, as any anti-caking agents will kill the plant. Water regularly to keep the compost moist and ensure it doesn't dry out.
Samphire can be grown in pots or in the ground. If grown in pots, regular harvesting will keep the plant small. When grown in the ground, it can reach a height and width of up to 50 cm. It is adapted to a range of conditions but does best in full sun or partial shade.
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Watering and feeding
Samphire is a seawater plant, so it requires a saline solution for watering. It is recommended to add one teaspoon of sea salt to every pint of water. Be sure to use sea salt instead of table salt, as the anti-caking agents in the latter can harm the plant. Water regularly to keep the compost moist and prevent it from drying out.
The WA native samphire requires less moisture than other varieties, but an occasional deep watering will improve the quality of new growth. It is adapted to a range of conditions but grows best in full sun or partial shade, planted in sandy, free-draining soil.
Rock samphire, also known as sea fennel, grows on rocky cliffs near the sea. It has fern-like leaves and a pungent, aromatic flavour. Marsh samphire, on the other hand, grows in muddy or sandy marshes along coastlines and has fleshy, vibrant green, jointed stems. It has a salty and crisp taste and is often used in salads, pickles, and as a side dish for seafood.
To mimic its natural habitat, you can water your samphire with a seaweed solution or a homemade brew of seaweed tea, in addition to the occasional mild seawater spray.
The growing season for samphire is from October to March, and it is best harvested in late spring or summer when the shoots are plump and bright green. During the colder months, the plant may turn reddish at the base and become woody and fibrous.
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Harvesting
The ideal time to harvest samphire is after two to three months of growth. The young and tender stems should be about 4 to 6 inches in length. To encourage continuous growth, regularly harvest the young shoots, leaving some growth at the base. Regular harvesting will prompt the plant to produce more tender stems.
If left to grow for too long, samphire stems become tougher and may develop a woody texture, which is not ideal for culinary use. Therefore, it is best to harvest the stems when they are still young and succulent. The tips of the plant are best harvested during the summer when they have the most flavour.
Once harvested, samphire can be used in various culinary applications. It can be enjoyed fresh in salads, pickled as a condiment, or sautéed with seafood to enhance its oceanic essence.
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Common issues
Samphire is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, there are a few common issues to watch out for when growing samphire in Australia.
Firstly, while samphire is resistant to most pests, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, caterpillars, or fungal infections. Regular inspections and prompt treatment can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, weeds can compete with samphire, slowing down its growth. Regular mulching and weeding can promote the healthy growth of samphire and prevent weeds from taking over.
Another issue to consider is that samphire is a self-seeding plant that can spread quickly and become invasive if neglected. It is important to keep an eye on its growth and take appropriate measures to control its spread if necessary.
Furthermore, samphire is a seawater plant, so it thrives when watered with a saline solution. It is important to use sea salt rather than table salt when preparing the saline solution, as anti-caking agents in table salt can harm the plant. Watering with saltwater is essential, as samphire grows naturally in coastal areas and requires a salty environment to thrive.
Lastly, while samphire can be grown outdoors, harsh weather conditions and frost can impact its growth. Growing samphire in a greenhouse can provide protection from cold weather, making it more likely for the plant to thrive and grow year after year.
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Frequently asked questions
Samphire is a vegetable that has been consumed since the Dark Ages. It is a seawater plant that grows in saline areas that flood and is well-adapted to coping with high salt levels. It comes in two varieties: marsh samphire and rock samphire.
Marsh samphire (Salicornia europaea) grows in muddy or sandy marshes along coastlines. It has vibrant green, jointed stems with small, fleshy leaves. Rock samphire (Crithmum maritimum) thrives on rocky cliffs near the sea. It has distinct, fern-like leaves and a more pungent, aromatic flavour compared to marsh samphire.
Samphire thrives in a warm, sunny position and can be grown in containers or in the ground. It grows well in poor, sandy soil and should be watered regularly with a saline solution. For every pint of water, add one teaspoon of sea salt.
Harvest your crop between June and August for the best results. The plant is at its best in late spring/summer when the shoots are plump and bright green in colour.
