Gräsfrön

Gräsfrön, commonly known as meadowfoam, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Resedaceae. The name "gräsfrön" is derived from Swedish, where *gräs* means "grass" and *frön* means "seeds," reflecting the plant's grass-like appearance and abundant seed production. Meadowfoam is native to coastal regions of North America, particularly along the Pacific Northwest, but it has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe.

The most well-known species in the genus is *Limnanthes douglasii*, often referred to as Douglas meadowfoam or simply meadowfoam. This annual plant grows in moist, sandy soils near beaches and estuaries, thriving in full sun. It produces small, cup-shaped yellow flowers that bloom from spring to early summer, followed by clusters of tiny, papery seeds. The seeds are prized for their high content of omega-9 fatty acids, particularly erucic acid, which makes them a valuable industrial oil source.

Meadowfoam oil is widely used in the production of cosmetics, lubricants, and biodegradable plastics due to its unique properties, such as low viscosity and excellent cold-weather performance. The plant is also cultivated for ornamental purposes in gardens, where its delicate flowers and grass-like foliage add texture to landscapes. In some regions, it is considered an invasive species due to its rapid seed dispersal and ability to outcompete native vegetation in disturbed areas.

Beyond its economic and aesthetic value, meadowfoam plays an ecological role in coastal habitats, providing food and habitat for various wildlife species. Conservation efforts focus on preserving its natural habitats while managing its spread in non-native areas to prevent ecological disruption. Research continues into optimizing its cultivation for sustainable industrial applications.