Plants that cope with the tramontane and salt

The tramontane can blow for days on end and, near the sea, it carries salt that scorches the leaves of many plants. The good news is that the coast has its own specialists.

For hedges and shelter - Japanese mock orange (Pittosporum tobira): dense, scented in spring and very salt-tolerant. - Tamarisk (Tamarix gallica): copes with wind and sea spray; ideal right by the sea. - Elaeagnus × ebbingei: fast-growing and makes a good windbreak. - Phoenician juniper (Juniperus phoenicea): native and very tough.

Low and rockery plants - Sea orache (Atriplex halimus): silver leaves and very salt-tolerant. - Rock samphire (Crithmum maritimum) and sea lavender (Limonium): they grow on the coastal cliffs. - Silver ragwort (Jacobaea maritima): grey foliage that copes with salty air.

Practical tips - Plant the sheltering hedge first, then the more delicate plants behind it. - Stake young trees so the wind doesn't loosen their roots. - After a storm, rinse salt-covered leaves with fresh water.