The beautiful Venetian plant with a secret climate superpower

Grist

by Matt Simon

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

In the Venetian lagoon, scientists have discovered a remarkable natural solution to climate challenges: sea lavender (Limonium), a plant with exceptional carbon-capturing abilities. This purple-flowered species thrives in salty, waterlogged conditions, making it ideal for wetland environments. By trapping carbon underground and stabilizing marshes, sea lavender not only combats climate change but also protects coastal areas from erosion and rising seas. Its root system stores significant amounts of biomass, far more than its aboveground growth, enhancing sediment retention and fostering biodiversity. Sea lavender's role extends beyond carbon sequestration. It anchors soil, reduces habitat loss, and supports other salt-tolerant species, creating a resilient ecosystem. Unlike man-made structures like sea walls, restored wetlands can adapt naturally to rising sea levels, offering long-term protection for coastal cities. This self-sustaining approach provides an economic advantage by reducing reliance on costly infrastructure maintenance. The study highlights the global potential of Limonium species, which are found in various coastal regions, including North America and Asia. Restoring these ecosystems could significantly boost carbon sequestration efforts while enhancing biodiversity and natural disaster resilience. For cities like Venice, leveraging nature's power through wetland restoration offers a sustainable path to combating climate change. This discovery underscores the importance of preserving and restoring coastal marshes. By doing so, we can harness the natural climate superpowers of sea lavender and other native plants, creating a more resilient future for both ecosystems and human communities.

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Originally published on Grist on 2/26/2026