Tripleurospermum maritimum, Sea Mayweed

Common Name: Sea Mayweed

Tripleurospermum maritimum, more commonly known as Sea Mayweed, belongs to a confusing group of plants. Some, such as Pineapple weed (Matricaria discoidea) have a distinctive fruity smell when bruised; others, such as this species, have none. Its white, daisy-like flower heads have white outer florets around a dense yellow disc. They usually appear between July and September and can reach up to 50 mm across.

The stems of the plant are frequently tinged red towards the base. Unlike those of other members of the family, its seeds have no white parachute of fine hairs to aid wind distribution. The leaves are divided into narrow segments and are slightly succulent; as a result they can retain moisture and tolerate harsh coastal locations. Can be found flowering from July to September all round the UK coastline.

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