Wheelscale Saltbush
Atriplex elegans
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Pl. 6D83 — Atriplex elegans
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IOverview
Overview
Wheelscale Saltbush (Atriplex elegans) is a low-growing herb found in the arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types, including light sandy and medium soils. Known for its edible leaves and seeds, Wheelscale Saltbush is a valuable resource in the native range where it grows. One distinctive feature of this plant is its small stature, reaching only about 0.2 meters in height, while another notable characteristic is its unique, wheel-shaped seed scales, giving it its common name.
Quick answers
What is Wheelscale Saltbush?
Wheelscale Saltbush (Atriplex elegans) is a low-growing herb found in the arid regions of Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of Mexico. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types, including light sandy and medium soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Wheelscale Saltbush thrives in full sun and prefers light to medium soil that is either dry or moist. It can grow up to 0.2 meters tall and is an annual forb/herb. This plant is native to regions including Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and parts of Mexico. For cultivation, ensure the soil is well-draining but also capable of retaining some moisture. Given its natural habitat in arid to semi-arid areas, it is hardy in temperate regions. Propagate through seeds for best results. Harvest leaves and seeds for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Wheelscale Saltbush for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple and sunny spot for your Wheelscale Saltbush.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a container or garden bed, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil. For containers, choose one with drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep. Transplant small plants gently to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly but regularly to keep the soil moist until established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Prune lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts for a tidy appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sun.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Wheelscale Saltbush are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are often dried before consumption. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
8 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
8 native · 2 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 8 native· 2 introduced
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Texas, Utah, Nevada, New Mexico
introduced:Maine, Maryland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 6d832db0-102b-4fbc-84ac-564ffa4f9020
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