Gmelin's saltbush
Atriplex gmelinii
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Pl. C574 — Atriplex gmelinii
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IOverview
Overview
Gmelin's saltbush, scientifically known as Atriplex gmelinii, is an annual forb or herb found in a wide range across North America and Asia, including Alaska, British Columbia, California, and parts of Inner Mongolia. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, thriving best in light (sandy) to medium soil types. Known for its edible leaves and seeds, Gmelin's saltbush is a valuable resource in some regions. One distinctive feature of this plant is its height, typically reaching only 0.5 meters, making it an easily recognizable addition to native landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Gmelin's saltbush?
Gmelin's saltbush, scientifically known as Atriplex gmelinii, is an annual forb or herb found in a wide range across North America and Asia, including Alaska, British Columbia, California, and parts of Inner Mongolia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Gmelin's saltbush thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that is either light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well in moist environments. This annual plant grows to about 0.5 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions, native to areas including Alaska, British Columbia, California, and parts of Asia. For cultivation, ensure the soil is not overly wet; regular watering should be balanced with good drainage. Harvest leaves and seeds for edible use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Gmelin's saltbush for the first time
7steps
Start with Gmelin's saltbush as a simple, low-maintenance plant for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden, covering them lightly with soil. Alternatively, start seedlings indoors and transplant after danger of frost passes.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid waterlogging but ensure the soil doesn't dry out completely. Keep the plant in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure, and water only when the soil is very dry. Prune lightly if needed to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune any dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth. Leaves can be harvested as needed for culinary use.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Gmelin's saltbush are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are typically dried before consumption. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
11 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
11 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 11 native
Asia1 region
native (1)China
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Kamchatka, Khabarovsk, Kuril Is., Magadan, Northwest Territorie, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c574eb8a-a013-43aa-95ef-6bb7f1275689
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