Alkali Seaheath
Frankenia salina
- Native to:
- Chile, Mexican Pacific Is., Mexico, United States
iNaturalist: © smfang (iNaturalist #33097572)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Frankeniaceae
- Genus:
- Frankenia
- Species:
- Frankenia salina
- USDA Symbol:
- FRSA
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Subshrub
- Height:
- 60 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- jun,jul,aug,sep
- Bloom Colors:
- pink, purple
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★★★☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★★★★★ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
- Caterpillars:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)
Host Plant for Caterpillars
Scrobipalpa monumentella
Reported Fauna Sightings
Bees: Anthophora flavocincta, Triepeolus matildae
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, butterflies
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
- Salt Tolerant:
- Yes
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- saline, sandy, well-drained soil
- pH:
- 6.5 - 8.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- commonly found in coastal salt marshes
Propagation & Germination
Pre-treatment: Soak seeds in fresh water for 24 hours
Establishment: Seeds are collected between September 16th and October 21st. The plant is found in salt marshes, beaches and alkali flats along or near the coast; from Marin and Solano counties to Lower California; also on the islands.
Source: npn.rngr.net