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Oysterleaf
Mertensia maritima
Uses: Culinary Duration: Perennial (hardy in zones 3-7)
When to Sow: Spring/Late Summer/Early Fall Ease of Germination: Moderate/Special Treatment Required
(Oyster plant; Sea lungwort) Leaves are like oysters! This little-known super hardy perennial is found along seashores from the far north of Canada to as far south as B.C., the Maritimes and New England. It is salt-tolerant and thrives in gravel and sand, feeding on little more than composted seaweed washed up on the shore. Yet it also thrives in gardens in well-drained soil, even in warmer areas as far south as California. The Inuit of Alaska were known to eat the rhizomes. In Europe it has been over-harvested to the point where it is now rare. The texture of cooked leaves is remarkably like oysters, and the aroma is described as having "marine oyster-like notes." A recent study revealed that the plant possesses high concentrations of allantoin, the factor responsible for the healing magic of comfrey.
S4329 Seeds $5.75/pkt
Currency: United States Dollar

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