Rock Samphire

Popular with sailors to prevent scurvy in the 17th century, this seaside native is high in vitamin C and was pickled to preserve it for long voyages. Not only edible, it’s a striking drought-tolerant ground cover too! As the species name suggests, this plant will thrive in coastal gardens, forming a tight ground cover inrocky cracks and sandy soils. The fleshy green-blue leaves are prepared as a pickle and used as a condiment throughout the Mediterranean and the British Isles. Theycan also be used fresh as a garnish, as we do at the Heronswood cafe.