Frankenia

Frankenia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Frankeniaceae. These plants are commonly known as sea lavenders or sandy moors. The genus is native to saline or alkaline soils in temperate and subtropical regions worldwide, with a notable concentration in Australia. Frankenia species are typically small, low-growing shrubs or subshrubs. Their leaves are often small and succulent, adapted to tolerate salty conditions. The flowers are usually small and inconspicuous, with petals that can be white, pink, or purple. Many Frankenia species are found in coastal areas, salt marshes, and arid regions where other plants struggle to survive. They play a role in stabilizing soil and providing habitat for small invertebrates. The exact number of species within the genus is subject to ongoing taxonomic research, but it is generally considered to contain several dozen distinct species. Reproduction in Frankenia can occur through both sexual and asexual means. Some species are cultivated as ornamental plants for their drought and salt tolerance, particularly in rock gardens or as ground cover in challenging environments. The genus is named after the Swedish naturalist Johan Franck.