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.
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.
Does American Sea-Blite fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.