Some Common Plants of Upper Newport Bay
Alkali heath
(Frankenia salina)
Plant: Low sprawling bushy shrub is commonly found in the drier parts of the salt marsh with very alkaline soil.
Leaf: Opposite each other on the stem. Lower leaves egg shaped, 5/8 inch long, with the stem attached to the narrow end. Upper leaves are narrow.
Flowers: Small singular, purple flower about 3/8 inch wide with no flower stem.
Flowering period:
June to October
Can be found here:
Big Canyon, Back Bay Drive, Interpretive Center
Native Plant: Yes
Halophyte: Yes
Family Name: Frankenia
Click on Picture for enlarged version
Similar Species:
Date: 11/1/2003