The sea bean is a succulent plant that is a one of the Salicornia species. It is not really a bean and it does not grow in the sea, but near in the water. They grow wild around the rocks on the seashore, where they get washed by the waves. They do not get very big, usually less than 30 cm tall, with a main stem that grows up horizontally, with small branches coming out. The leaves are so small, that the sea bean looks like it has small scales instead of leaves. Many of the varieties are green, but like trees, their foliage turns red in autumn. They produce hermaphrodite flowers that are pollinated by the wind and ocean breeze. Their fruit is small and succulent, with a single seed.
Sea bean can be eaten raw or cooked and used in many different preparation. I like them with citrus, raw mushroom, crab meat and salads. The flavor is delicate and very marine with a high amount of saltiness that reminds you of the ocean.
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