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Thrift

©Lara Howe

Thrift

Scientific name

Armeria maritima
Cushions of clover-like, pink Thrift are a familiar sight of cliffs, shingle beaches and sand dunes around the UK. Also known as 'Cliff Clover', it makes a good garden plant.

Species information

Statistics

Height: up to 20cm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

April to October

About

Cushion-like bunches of the rounded, pink flowers of Thrift are a common sight on coastal cliffs, shingle beaches and sand dunes around the UK, as well as on inland marshes. Thrift is a perennial and flowers mainly from April to July, but can hang on until early autumn. It is also commonly known as 'Sea-pink' and 'Cliff Clover' and makes an excellent garden plant for well-drained, sandy soils, providing nectar for a range of insects.

How to identify

The rounded, pink, clover-like flowers of Thrift appear on long stems above springy cushions of foliage.

Distribution

Found all around the UK's coast.

Habitats

Did you know?

The flowers of Thrift were featured on one side of the old 'thrupenny bit' - the three pence coin used until the decimal system took over in the 1970s.

How people can help

The Wildlife Trusts manage many coastal nature reserves for the benefit of the wildlife they support. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife news, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and will be helping local wildlife along the way.