Ochrophyta · Brown Seaweed

Hedophyllum sessile

(C.Agardh) Setchell
Phylum
Ochrophyta
Class
Phaeophyceae
Order
Laminariales
Family
Laminariaceae

Hedophyllum sessile

Sea cabbage

Authority
(C.Agardh) Setchell
Thallus of this kelp is unique in that it lacks a stipe. It is medium to dark brown with a branched holdfast (haptera) and has a somewhat thick blade up to 1.5 m (5 ft) long. The blade can be bullate (appear puckered) and tear with age.

Habitat

This perennial kelp is found on rock in the mid to low intertidal from semi-protected to semi-exposed habitats. Specimens from more exposed habitats tend to be smooth with many splits.

North Pacific Distribution

Gulf of Alaska to Monterey County, California

Former scientific names

Laminaria sessilis, Saccharina sessilis

Similar taxa

Hedophyllum spp.

Last updated December 26, 2010

Photos