Samphire

Introduction[edit]

Crithmum maritimum, commonly known as rock samphire or sea fennel, is a perennial plant belonging to the family Apiaceae. It is the sole species in the genus Crithmum and is native to coastal regions of Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia^[1]^[2]. Historically, rock samphire has been valued for its edible leaves and stems, which are used in various culinary traditions, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine^[3]^[4]. The plant is also recognized for its potential medicinal properties, including being a diuretic and aiding digestion^[5].

Characteristics[edit]

Physical Characteristics: - Growth Habit: Rock samphire is a succulent-like plant with woody-based branches, growing up to 50 cm (20 inches) in height and width^[6]^[7]. - Leaves: The leaves are fleshy, divided into linear to oblong lobes, and are aromatic^[8]. - Flowers: The flowers are greenish-yellow, appearing in umbels during mid-summer^[9].

Growing Conditions: - Soil: Prefers well-drained, light sandy or gravelly soils, often found in saline conditions^[10]^[11]. - Climate: Thrives in warm, sunny positions with some protection from midday sun^[12]. - Hardiness: Hardy in UK zone 6 and USDA zones 7a to 10b^[13]^[14].

Lifecycle: - Growth Rate: Medium to slow. - Propagation: Can be propagated through seeds or division of roots.

Why is this crop useful for space?[edit]

Rock samphire could be beneficial for space cultivation due to several factors: - Nutritional Value: It is rich in vitamin C, iodine, and bioactive compounds, making it a nutritious addition to space diets^[15]. - Adaptability: Its ability to thrive in well-drained soils with minimal water requirements could be advantageous in controlled space environments^[16]. - Medicinal Properties: Its potential as a diuretic and digestive aid could support health in space missions^[17].

History of Cultivation in Space (if there is any)[edit]

There is no documented history of cultivating Crithmum maritimum in space. However, its characteristics make it a candidate for future space agriculture projects focused on sustainable and nutritious food production. The adaptability and nutritional benefits of rock samphire align with the goals of space agriculture, which seeks to provide reliable food sources for long-duration missions.

References[edit]

[1] ttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crithmum

[2] ttps://wildflowersofireland.net/plant_detail.php?id_flower=227

[3] ttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crithmum

[4] ttps://agrifoodscience.com/index.php/TURJAF/article/view/6059

[5] ttps://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crithmum+maritimum

[6] ttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crithmum

[7] ttps://worldofsucculents.com/crithmum-maritimum-rock-samphire

[8] ttps://worldofsucculents.com/crithmum-maritimum-rock-samphire

[9] ttps://worldofsucculents.com/crithmum-maritimum-rock-samphire

[10] ttps://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crithmum+maritimum

[11] ttps://worldofsucculents.com/crithmum-maritimum-rock-samphire

[12] ttps://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crithmum+maritimum

[13] ttps://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crithmum+maritimum

[14] ttps://worldofsucculents.com/crithmum-maritimum-rock-samphire

[15] ttps://agrifoodscience.com/index.php/TURJAF/article/view/6059

[16] ttps://worldofsucculents.com/crithmum-maritimum-rock-samphire

[17] ttps://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crithmum+maritimum

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