Armeria maritime is known by several common names, including common thrift and thrift seapink. It grows into a small mounding evergreen perennial growing 6-8 in. tall, 10-12 in. wide and has narrow dark green . Showy deep pink ball-shaped flowers develop on thin stems above foliage and are very attractive in mid to late spring.
In California, the common thrift grows on coastal bluffs sand dunes from San Luis Obispo County north to British Columbia, Canada. Throughout this range a number of local forms and variations exist that have led to different cultivars being available from local nurseries and garden centers. Flower colors range from magenta-pink to white.
Common thrift is a popular choice in Inland Empire gardens for border plantings, as a small area ground cover and for container use. It does best in partial shade and protection from afternoon sun and heat with regular water during summer.
