| Common Name : | Sea mayweed. |
| Binomial Name : | Tripleurospermum maritimum |
| Family : | Asteraceae |
| Photo Taken : | Ireland |
Botanical Identity and Native Range
Tripleurospermum maritimum, commonly known as Sea mayweed, is a flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to coastal areas of northern and western Europe, extending into the Arctic regions, and has adapted to saline and sandy environments. It often grows along seashores, dunes, and rocky coasts, thriving in areas with high salt exposure. This hardy perennial is recognized for its resilience in harsh maritime conditions.
Plant Description
Tripleurospermum maritimum forms low, bushy clumps, typically reaching 15–40 cm in height. The leaves are fleshy, finely divided, and aromatic, an adaptation to reduce water loss in its salty, wind-exposed habitat. Stems can be upright or spreading, depending on environmental conditions. Its succulent-like foliage and robust root system enable it to survive in nutrient-poor, sandy soils. In coastal areas, it often grows in dense patches, helping to stabilize the surrounding sand.
Flowers and Fruit Characteristics
The flowers resemble those of the common daisy, with white ray florets surrounding a central yellow disc. Each flower head measures about 2–4 cm across, and blooms from late spring through autumn. The ray florets are narrow and slightly reflexed, while the disc florets form a compact, golden center. The plant produces small, ribbed achenes that lack a pappus, meaning the seeds are dispersed primarily by gravity and water rather than wind.
Uses and Cultural Significance
Sea mayweed has limited direct human use but is important ecologically. Its flowers provide nectar and pollen for coastal pollinators, including bees and hoverflies. Historically, it has been noted for its aromatic leaves, which were sometimes used in folk remedies for colds and headaches. Its primary significance today lies in its role as a hardy, salt-tolerant species that contributes to the biodiversity and stability of coastal ecosystems.
Photos of this Sea mayweed (Tripleurospermum maritimum) were taken from the following locations:
1) July 2016: Bull island, Dublin, Ireland.
Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com
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