Thrift and Sea Pink are the two names most commonly given to this widespread seaside-growing flower. Its Latin name is Armeria maritima and means "pink" and "sea". That is appropriately descriptive. The family name, however, is Plumbaginaceae and references the old belief that the plant can cure lead poisoning. Not to be tried! There is a suggestion that the alternate name Thrift derives from the closely packed nature of its leaves that effectively conserve moisture in the strong coastal winds. This fine specimen was growing on the edge of a cliff, high above the sea at Stackpole Head, Pembrokeshire. The yellow lichen favours a limestone location, and here it was probably fertilised by the droppings of the nearby guillemots, razorbills and gulls.
photo © T. Boughen Camera: Nikon Z 5
