Sugar Kelp / Spring / Summer / Autumn / Winter / Edible

Common Names

Sea-belt, Sugar Wrack

Botanical Name

Laminaria saccharina, Saccharina latissima

Scientific Classification

Kingdom – Chromista

Order –Laminariales

Family – Laminariaceae

Habitat

This seaweed is fond of low water, sheltered areas with fast-moving flows. It dislikes exposed shores, and is often found in patches along water’s edges.

This seaweed grows rapidly from winter until April, so can be a good find when other species have receded.

Found throughout the UK, some western coasts of northern Europe, and eastern North America.

Physical Characteristics:

Fronds

This kelp has a relatively small short, fine stipe (stem), which has a round cross-section and is more flexible than other kelps. Its brown fronds are undivided, with rigidly frilled edges and bubbles/highly textured centre sections. The shape of the fronds can be quite variable depending on the conditions in which the plant grows, e.g. water flow, exposure etc.

Holdfast

The holdfast is branched and root-like, made of many finger-like haptera.

Known Hazards 

As with most seaweeds, the high iodine content means that those with thyroid issues should be careful not to consume too much if they are already taking iodine supplements. Likewise, the salt content may be a problem for those who need to limit their salt intake. In general, there are more hazards associated with the environment you find it in than from the algae itself. It is wise to check water quality data from the Environment Agency (https://environment.data.gov.uk/bwq/profiles/ ) to see whether there are issues with chemical or sewage pollution in the water, and to rinse your harvested seaweed well with clean water to be on the safe side. You should also be aware of slippery or unstable rocks, and the possibility of the sea coming round quickly and cutting you off from land. Check the tide times, only harvest from areas you can get to safely, and take someone with you to get help if you get into difficulty. 

Could Be Confused With

No other species is as rigidly frilled at its edges – Dabberlocks is a bit wrinkled and is also brown, but has a distinctive midrib which differentiates it from sugar kelp.

Edible Uses

This seaweed has a uniquely sweet taste, and can therefore be used by the creative cook in many exciting ways.

Marinade and cook down for a new take on sweet and sour sauces, add to exciting salads alongside fruits, cheese and nuts, or experiment with bringing the umami flavours into deserts.

Conservation Considerations

Never pull the entire plant away from its rock – if harvesting from fixed plants, only harvest the frond, leaving the base to reproduce the following year.

Notes on Herbal uses

As with all seaweeds, sugar kelp is very high in minerals and salts due to needing to retain enough water in a very saline environment.

This makes it a wonderful tonic food, important in the maintenance of a thriving nervous, immune and just about every other body system.

Consume in moderation – see the safety section above. Clinically (by medical herbalists), seaweeds are often used for skin and skeletal issues.

Extra notes from the Foragers

The sugar in the name refers to a white, sweet powder (mannitol) that forms on the dried fronds of this species. On the Orkney Island of North Ronaldsay, sugar kelp is enthusiastically enjoyed by a certain breed of sheep, for whom seaweed is one of the only available foods for some parts of the year.

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