Confirmation of Sea Aster .. or otherwise

[alindsay]

I'm hoping that someone can confirm that this is Sea Aster, not a garden escapee. Found on the sand dunes at St Anne's-on-the-sea, Lancashire.







Thanks in advance

[Hedera]

I think this is correct - the 2nd picture shows the fleshy leaves which counts out a Michaelmas daisy x. The habitat is spot on.

[Dorts]

Yes, I agree Sea Aster - Aster tripolium, still common around our coast. Sometimes almost white.
There is also a form without ray-florets, (no petals), just has the yellow disc-florets.
Just about our last coastal plant to flower.
Dorts.

[IanS]

The rayless form can be found on the north Norfolk coast. Quite often the dominant form too!

[alindsay]

Thanks all. A lovely flower and I shall watch out for the other type.

[Hedera]

Just googled sea aster and apparently you can eat the leaves. I suppose it must taste something like samphire?

[alindsay]

Now that's very interesting Hedera.

Thanks for the information

Regards

[Dorts]

Originally Posted by Hedera

Just googled sea aster and apparently you can eat the leaves. I suppose it must taste something like samphire?

Originally Posted by alindsay

Now that's very interesting Hedera.
Thanks for the information
Regards

'Spinach substitute', or the latest 'Haute cuisine'?
Dorts.