California Coastal Commission, Public Education Program, Upper Newport Bay Plants

Alkali Heath (Frankenia salina)

Plant: Low sprawling bushy shrub is commonly found in the drier parts of the salt marsh with very alkaline soil.
Leaf: Opposite each other on the stem. Lower leaves egg shaped, 5/8 inch long, with the stem attached to the narrow end. Upper leaves are narrow.
Flowers: Small, singular, purple flower about 3/8 inch wide with no flower stem