Arthrocaulon macrostachyum — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Arthrocaulon macrostachyum

Arthrocaulon Macrostachyum

Updated · 185 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Arthrocaulon macrostachyum, synonym Arthrocnemum macrostachyum, is a species of flowering plant in the amaranth family. It is native to coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea and parts of the Middle East, where it grows in coastal and inland salt marshes, alkali flats, and other habitats with saline soils.

A note from PlantMom

Large-spiked glasswort is fairly disease-resistant and is typically not prone to illnesses. Still, it can be affected by pests and diseases found in its environment. Such infections are generally mild. Regarding care, this plant needs a moderate level of maintenance. It should be pruned regularly to preserve a neat appearance and encourage healthy growth. Applying fertilizer can also aid in boosting flowering. Large-spiked glasswort is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space, like a garden or patio, and does not demand extensive gardening experience. It may need more attention if cultivated indoors.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Arthrocaulon Macrostachyum.

Light

Large-spiked glasswort is a perennial, herbaceous plant that prefers sunny conditions and originates in open habitats, commonly occurring in meadows and grasslands. It favors full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.

Water

The large-spiked glasswort is well adapted to saline environments and excels at retaining moisture and tolerating drought. It thrives in conditions that mirror its natural coastal habitats. For optimal growth, it should be watered weekly. Its unique ability to survive in saline soils allows the large-spiked glasswort to effectively manage water availability.

Temperature

Large-spiked glasswort is fairly adaptable to temperature, able to withstand higher heat and significant temperature fluctuations. In hot conditions, attention should be paid to watering and providing some shade to prevent sunburn. Its tolerance of low temperatures is comparatively limited; it can endure a certain amount of cold, but excessively low temperatures can cause frost damage.

Fertilizer

A single fertilizer application in spring is generally enough for Large-spiked glasswort, though multiple feedings can maximize growth. Feed about once a month to every six weeks. Fertilization improves leaf appearance and function, maintaining uniform color and a healthy texture. It also encourages root development and nutrient uptake for the plant’s long-term health.

Pruning

To promote healthy growth and maintain an attractive shape, large-spiked glasswort benefits from regular pruning, preferably from early to late spring. During this time, remove any dead or weak stems and trim back any leggy growth. This practice encourages a compact form, reduces the risk of disease, and supports the development of thicker foliage and a stronger structure.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Herb
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Arthrocaulon
Family
Amaranthaceae
Hardiness Zone
8-11
Mature Height
30 cm to 61 cm
Mature Spread
30 cm to 49 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Size
0.20 cm to 0.25 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall
Native Area
Libya, Somalia, Egypt, Turkey, India, Angola, United Arab Emirates, Eritrea, Pakistan, Slovenia, Morocco, Croatia, Yemen, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Portugal, France, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Sudan, Mauritania, Cyprus, Greece, Lebanon, Syria, Italy, Spain, Israel, Senegal, Iran, Albania, Ireland, United Kingdom, Algeria, Kuwait
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Glaucous Glasswort en Large-spiked glasswort
PLATES
Arthrocaulon macrostachyum leaf
PLATE 01 · leaf
Arthrocaulon macrostachyum leaf
PLATE 02 · leaf
Arthrocaulon macrostachyum flower
PLATE 03 · flower
Arthrocaulon macrostachyum flower
PLATE 04 · flower
Arthrocaulon macrostachyum fruit
PLATE 05 · fruit
Arthrocaulon macrostachyum fruit
PLATE 06 · fruit