SEA BEET Beta vulgaris ssp maritima (Chenopodiaceae) Height to 1m. Sprawling, clump-forming perennial of cliffs, shingle beaches and other coastal habitats. FLOWERS are green and borne in dense, leafy spikes (Jul-Sep). FRUITS are spiky; often stick together in a clump. LEAVES are dark green, glossy and leathery with reddish stems; shape varies from oval to triangular. STATUS-Locally common.