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EXPLORE > PLANTS > ANGIOSPERMS
Cakile edentula
Sea rocket is an indigenous plant found along the beaches of the Oregon coast. Large specimens may grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) high along erect stems It has thick, fleshy stems and leaves which help the plant retain moisture and resist damage by wind and flying sand. During the spring and summer, sea rocket will produce loose bunches of lavender and white flowers, followed by elongated seed pods. A long taproot helps keep the plant anchored to the shifting sand. Its unusual name comes from the shape of its sepals, which are smooth-skinned and look similar to the nose of a rocket ship.
Range and Habitat
Sea rocket can be found above the high tide line on sandy beaches on both coasts of North America and around the Great Lakes. Different varieties can be found in Europe, Asia and Australia with some now having been introduced to North America as invasive species.
Distribution
Common. Sea rocket is a native plant to Oregon and prior to the early twentieth century was one of several species that helped stabilize coastal dunes. Much of the plant’s historic range has been reduced due to the intentional introduction of European beach grass and American beach grass. These invasive plants, which are heartier and fast-growing, have taken over many areas once occupied by sea rocket.
Photo credit: USDA
Cakile edentula
Sea rocket is an indigenous plant found along the beaches of the Oregon coast. Large specimens may grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) high along erect stems It has thick, fleshy stems and leaves which help the plant retain moisture and resist damage by wind and flying sand. During the spring and summer, sea rocket will produce loose bunches of lavender and white flowers, followed by elongated seed pods. A long taproot helps keep the plant anchored to the shifting sand. Its unusual name comes from the shape of its sepals, which are smooth-skinned and look similar to the nose of a rocket ship.
Range and Habitat
Sea rocket can be found above the high tide line on sandy beaches on both coasts of North America and around the Great Lakes. Different varieties can be found in Europe, Asia and Australia with some now having been introduced to North America as invasive species.
Distribution
Common. Sea rocket is a native plant to Oregon and prior to the early twentieth century was one of several species that helped stabilize coastal dunes. Much of the plant’s historic range has been reduced due to the intentional introduction of European beach grass and American beach grass. These invasive plants, which are heartier and fast-growing, have taken over many areas once occupied by sea rocket.
Photo credit: USDA
