Virginia Glasswort
Salicornia depressa
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Virginia Glasswort as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
RI
Glasswort is a small, fleshy annual succulent that forms low mounds of segmented, pickle-like stems. This salt-tolerant plant produces tiny flowers in summer and thrives in wet, saline conditions where few other plants can survive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Virginia Glasswort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very unusual appearance may confuse neighbors
- Requires constantly wet saline conditions
- Dies completely each year as annual
Wildlife value
This plant provides specialized habitat for salt marsh wildlife and may support some insects adapted to saline environments, though it's not a major pollinator plant.
Common questions
- How much sun does Virginia Glasswort need?
- Virginia Glasswort grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Virginia Glasswort bloom?
- Virginia Glasswort blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Virginia Glasswort native?
- Virginia Glasswort (Salicornia depressa) is native to RI, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Virginia Glasswort toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Virginia Glasswort as toxic to livestock.
- Is Virginia Glasswort HOA-friendly?
- Virginia Glasswort 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 Virginia Glasswort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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