Oarweed is brown seaweed that grows 4 ½ to 6 feet in length and has an oar like shape (thus the name 'oarweed') with a waxy appearance. It grows close to the shorelines of its coastal area and flourishes well where it is partially exposed. This kelp is edible and in Ireland, it is hand harvested and used as a food product. It stores sodium glutamate and tastes quite good when eaten dried.

Growing freely, groupings of oarweed can be found together forming kelp beds and underwater forests that serve as homes to marine life. Aside from food, this plant has other uses.