American Sea-Blite
Suaeda calceoliformis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 27 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Suaeda calceoliformis is a small, fleshy-leaved annual succulent native to alkaline soils and salt flats. This low-growing plant forms compact mounds with thick, gray-green foliage that thrives in harsh, dry conditions where few other plants survive. It produces tiny, inconspicuous flowers from July through September.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Sea-Blite takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very unconventional appearance may look like weeds to neighbors
- Annual lifecycle means gaps in landscape coverage
- Extremely informal growth habit lacks traditional garden appeal
Wildlife value
This plant provides seeds for small birds and serves as habitat for specialized insects adapted to saline environments. Its flowers, while small, may attract some native bees and flies.
Common questions
- How much sun does American Sea-Blite need?
- American Sea-Blite grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does American Sea-Blite bloom?
- American Sea-Blite blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is American Sea-Blite native?
- American Sea-Blite (Suaeda calceoliformis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 27 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is American Sea-Blite HOA-friendly?
- American Sea-Blite takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow American Sea-Blite? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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