Sea Aster (Aster tripolium)

Family: Asteraceae or Compositae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Aster tripolium is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in flower from July to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees, flies, beetles, Lepidoptera (Moths & Butterflies). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweet taste. — Leaves and stems - the somewhat fleshy leaves are used to make pickles or are cooked.; The stem contains about 8.4% ash, whilst the leaf is 9% ash - this is mainly sodium chloride.

Habitat & North American Range

Salt marshes and maritime cliffs. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)