Sea Purslane

(Ibatia maritima)

Sea Purslane (Ibatia maritima)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 31" - 74"
High Temp. 84°F - 92°F
Low Temp. 63°F - 72°F

Summary

Ibatia maritima, commonly known as Sea Purslane, and also referred to as Coirossol-Diable, Corne A Cabrit, Corne A Cabrite, or Corne Cabrit in the Lesser Antilles, is a perennial herb native to coastal regions in the Americas, specifically the tropical and subtropical areas of North and South America, including the Caribbean islands. It is a halophyte, adapted to saline conditions, and plays a role in stabilizing shorelines and providing habitat for wildlife. This plant typically grows at a moderate rate to a height of 0.3-1 feet (0.09-0.3 meters) and a width of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters), forming dense mats of succulent, fleshy leaves that can help prevent soil erosion.

Sea Purslane’s green flowers are inconspicuous, blooming in the summer, and are often overlooked in favor of its foliage. The plant is valued in cultivation for its tolerance of salt spray and poor soils, making it an excellent choice for seaside gardens, coastal restoration projects, and as a ground cover in challenging conditions. It requires full sun exposure to thrive and prefers sandy or loamy soils with good drainage. Gardeners should be aware that in some regions, it can spread vigorously and may need to be managed to prevent unwanted colonization of adjacent areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.3-1 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Coastal habitats, including salt marshes, sandy shores, and rocky coastlines

Other Names

Common Names: Sea Purslane, Corne A Cabrit, Corne A Cabrite, Corne Cabrit, Corne Cabrite, Corossol A Chien, Sea Beet, Curamaguey, Beach Milkvine

Scientific Names: Ibatia maritima, Asclepias maritima, Cynanchum maritimum, Gonolobus cearensis, Gonolobus floccosus, Gonolobus maritimus, Gonolobus maritimus, Gonolobus micranthus, Gonolobus micranthus, Gonolobus suberosus

GBIF Accepted Name: Ibatia maritima