We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. The plants native habitat will give some idea of its cultivation needs. Recent research has shown this plant to have excellent potential as a commercial crop in arid and desert regions near the sea. It needs irrigation, which can sustainably be provided by using sea water.

Young leaves and stems - cooked or pickled. The raw seed is inedible due to the presence of saponins, though these remain in the seed-meal when the oil is extracted. The seed contains about 30% of an edible oil and 35% protein. The oil is highly polyunsaturated and similar to safflower oil (Carthamnus tinctorius) in fatty-acid composition. It has a pleasant nut-like flavor and a texture similar to olive oil.

Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in situ as soon as it is ripe if this is possible, otherwise sow in spring.

Salt marshes, often colonising new areas of mud flats through its prolific seed production.