Red algae

Description

I keep seeing the pretty pinky reddish little trees of seaweed on the beach. I think it is called (please let me know if I’m wrong) Mastocarpus stellatus, also called Clúimhín Cait (cats’ puff), carragheen, or false Irish moss. It is a species of red algae closely related to Irish moss.

Apparently, you can use it for cooking and as the basis for a drink reputed to ward off colds and flu.

Watercolour 6.5cmx6.5cm on 190gsm watercolour paper in 15x15cm frame with mound and glass