Halimione portulacoides the sea shores of western and southern Europe, and from the Mediterranean Sea to western Asia. Copeland Islands (Co. Down). Botanical synonyms include "Atriplex portulacoides" L. and "Obione portulacoides" (L.) Moq. Recent phylogenetic research revealed, that "Halimione" is a distinct genus and can not be included in "Atriplex". Halimione portulacoides Halimione portulacoides or sea purslane (2n=36) is a small greyish-green shrub widely distributed in temperate Eurasia and parts of Africa. A halophyte, it is found in salt marshes and coastal dunes, and is usually flooded at high tide. The plant grows to 75 cm. It is evergreen, and in northern
Asia and prosperity of the ancient culture of India personified Asia, attracting European commerce, exploration and colonialism. The accidental discovery of a trans-Atlantic route from Europe to America by Columbus while in search for a route to India demonstrates this deep fascination. The Silk Road became the main East-West trading route in the Asian hinterlands while the Straits of Malacca stood as a major sea route. Asia has exhibited economic dynamism (particularly East Asia) as well as robust population growth during the 20th century, but overall population growth has since fallen. Asia was the birthplace of most of the world's mainstream