Sea Beet
Beta vulgaris ssp. maritima
Sea Beet is the wild ancestor of cultivated beetroot, sugar beet, and chard. It has thick, glossy leaves and sturdy taproots that tolerate salt spray and poor soils. On Lihou, look for it on the upper shore or near footpaths close to the coast, where its deep roots and fleshy leaves help it thrive in the island’s windy, saline conditions.
- Habitat: Coastal margins, upper beaches, disturbed ground near the shore.
- When to See: Foliage can be spotted year-round; flowers and seedheads typically from early summer into autumn.
- Length: Clumps can stand 30–80 cm tall.