Rhodymenia palmata f. palmata, Palmaria palmata

Description: Thallus is leathery, somewhat shiny, deep red to maroon, to at least 20 cm (8 in) tall. The blade is strap-like, unbranched or with 1 or 2 lobes with rounded tips, tapering to a discoidal holdfast. Habitat: This annual is found on rock in the mid to low intertidal (usually above P. mollis) of semi-exposed habitats. This species is edible, a good source of vitamins and minerals, and similar to the Atlantic species P. palmata (dulse). Similar taxa: Palmaria mollis is thinner and more glove-shaped than the mitten-shape of P. hecatensis.