saltworts

Saltworts are a group of flowering plants that tolerate high salinity and are commonly found in coastal and inland saline environments. The name refers to several genera, especially Salicornia (glassworts or samphire) and related genera such as Sarcocornia and Arthrocnemum.

They are typically herbaceous and often succulent, with jointed stems and leaves that are reduced to small scales. Many saltworts form low, prostrate mats in salt marshes, tidal flats, and saline depressions. They occur in temperate and subtropical regions around the world, from Europe to Asia and the Americas.

Taxonomy of saltworts is complex. They are placed within the Amaranthaceae (subfamily Salicornioideae) after recent reclassifications; the term saltwort is a common name describing habitat and habit rather than a strict, natural group. Traditional classifications have changed as plant relationships have been clarified.

Ecology and adaptations: as halophytes, saltworts thrive in high-salt environments by employing adaptations such as succulence to store water, ion compartmentalization to cope with salt ions, and, in some species, salt excretion glands on the leaves.

Uses and cultural significance: some species are edible. Salicornia europaea, in particular, is harvested as a vegetable or garnish in parts of Europe and other regions, often called samphire or sea beans. They are also used ornamentally in saline gardens and restoration projects.

Conservation: salt marsh habitats that host saltworts face threats from coastal development, pollution, overharvesting, and sea-level rise, which can impact the distribution and abundance of these plants and the ecosystem services they support.