Additional notes (click to expand)

Horticulture

Light shade is preferred in well drained soil. Height 10cm, spread 30cm.
Pennard plants label

Medicinal

The related species M. ciliata has been used in traditional medicine. An infusion has been used to increase the milk flow of nursing mothers. An infusion of the powdered root has been used to relieve the itching caused by smallpox and measles.
Moerman, Daniel E. (2009) Native American Ethnobotany. Timber Press. p.343

Other use

This Scottish native is prized by chefs for its oyster-like flavour, used in salads and especially in many egg recipes. Harvest the leaves from spring until autumn.
Pennard plants label

In Alaska the long leafy stems of M. maritima are boiled , cooked briefly, and eaten with seal oil.
Moerman, Daniel E. (2009) Native American Ethnobotany. Timber Press. p.343

Mertensia maritima (L.) Gray

Family: BORAGINACEAE
Genus: Mertensia
Species: maritima (L.) Gray
Common names: Oysterplant, oysterleaf
Distribution summary: Subarctic to NE. U.S.A.
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness: H5 - Hardy; cold winter
Habitat: Sandy and rocky places near the sea
Garden status: Currently grown
Garden location: Arid zones (Q)


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