Pickleweed … aka Sea Beans

Elkhorn Slough, CA

Not a pickle. Not a weed. This edible succulent is a tasty wetland treat. It was used by our first Native American residents, the Ohlone, to spice and flavor their foods. The plant’s bright orangey-red color you see in this picture is caused by the salty water that seeps into it through its roots. Eat it fresh, steamed or … pickled.