SafePlants

Saltmarsh False Foxglove (Agalinis maritima)

Agalinis maritima, commonly known as saltmarsh false foxglove or seaside gerardia, is an herbaceous plant found in specific coastal habitats.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that the leaves are fleshy and succulent.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that the plant produces fruit capsules.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Agalinis maritima (Raf.) Raf.
• Family: Scrophulariaceae (Figwort Family)
• Genus: Agalinis (false foxglove), containing about 70 species in North, Central, and South America.
• Synonyms: Gerardia maritima Raf. (among others)
• USDA Symbol: AGMA3
• Subspecies: Agalinis maritima var. maritima

Distribution and Habitat

• The saltmarsh false foxglove is found in brackish or salt marshes, specifically in shallow pannes in the high salt marsh.
• It is located in all of New England excluding Vermont.
• Specific locations mentioned include Yarmouth County, Nova Scotia and Everglades National Park, Florida.
• Also found in coastal areas such as Alabama and Delaware.

Morphological Characteristics

• It is described as an annual herb.
• The plant has erect, narrow, linear, fleshy (succulent) leaves that are mostly opposite on the stem.
• Leaves are numerous and bushy, with two or more leaves at each node.
• The flowers are described as having showy pink blooms.
• Medium in size and can reach 14m in height during the spring.
• The plant is not evergreen.

Ecological Role

• The plant is specifically adapted to salt marsh habitats and is often found with other salt marsh vegetation.

Quirky Facts

• Until recently, the Agalinis genus was aligned differently taxonomically.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden is mentioned as a source for gardening tips and ideas.
• Discover Life provides a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Agalinis maritima.