The original name for sea lavender is Limonium vulgare (Lamsoor in Dutch). It is a flower that survives in the saline soils of coastlines. Sea lavender is a salt-tolerant plant that has adapted to absorbing seawater and excreting excess salts. During sunny days, crystals of salt glitter on the bottom of the leaves and make the plant sparkle. The best time to see the blooming flowers is between early July and early August.
In Belgium, the biggest concentration of sea lavender is in the Zwin, a nature reserve on the North Sea near the Belgian-Dutch border. Along the coastline, the vast salt marshes spread far out. The marshes are plains that get flooded by the sea during spring tides and storms. Even though this severe salty environment does not seem to be friendly, sea lavender has found a way to make this environment its home.
You may visit Zwin Natuur Park on your own, or within a private tour along the Belgian coast.
Practical info
When can sea lavender be seen in bloom in the Zwin reserve in Belgium?
The sparkling sea lavender blooms in the Zwin reserve in Belgium between July and August each year. The plant has adapted to grow in saline soils and is most active during sunny days. Sea lavender absorbs seawater and excretes excess salts to grow and thrive in the harsh environment of coastal regions. Show more
What part of Belgium has the most abundant sea lavender plants?
Zwin is the nature reserve that holds the most abundant population of sea lavender plants in Belgium. The area is a vast salt marsh and spans the North Sea near the Belgian-Dutch border. The salt marshes get flooded by tides and storms, making them a unique environment for various plant and animal species to thrive. Sea lavender is a dominant plant in these marshes due to its tolerance to saline soils. Show more
How does sea lavender survive the harsh Belgian coastline environment?
Sea lavender can survive the harsh Belgian coastline environment due to its unique adaptations to saline soil. The plant has the ability to absorb seawater and excrete excess salts, making it resilient in the saline soils of Belgium's coastlines. During hot days, the plant sparkles with crystals of salt that collect on its leaves. Additionally, sea lavender releases carbon dioxide during photorespiration, which reduces water loss and helps the plant grow in saline soil. Show more
What is unique about the North Sea salt marshes in the Zwin reserve of Belgium?
The North Sea salt marshes in the Zwin reserve of Belgium are unique due to their vast plain marsh areas that get flooded by the sea during storms and spring tides. Saline soils make the area hostile, but it is a fantastic habitat for different species of plants and animals. Sea lavender is a dominant plant species in the area, and visitors can spot migratory birds and other plant species throughout the year. Show more
Is it possible to visit the Zwin reserve in Belgium without a tour guide?
It is possible to visit the Zwin reserve in Belgium without a tour guide. The park is open all year round and is accessible through the official website. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or bike, but designated paths and guided tours are available for visitors who would like an educational experience. Private tours and independent visits are welcomed, providing visitors with a fun and informative day out in the park. Show more
