The Pacific Pickleweed (Salicornia pacifica), or Salmuera in Spanish, is a plant native to California growing mostly along the intertidal zones of the central and southern California coastlines. It is able to live in salt marshes and mudflats because of unique adaptions allowing it to grow and thrive in salty water. Good for erosion control, the Pacific Pickelweed is sometimes called Sea Asparagus as it resembles asparagus in appearance. The Pacific Pickleweed leaves are edible, can be eaten both raw and cooked, and have even been used in recipes for fine dining. 

For more information about Pacific Pickleweed and other plants, visit the San Diego Natural History Museum’s San Diego County Plant Atlas.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jon Rebman, SDNHM