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Quail Bush

Atriplex lentiformis
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Atriplex lentiformis (Quail Bush) — botanical photograph
Pl. 18FA — Atriplex lentiformis
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I

Overview

Quail Bush (Atriplex lentiformis) is a subshrub to shrub native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, including regions such as Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, and Utah. This plant thrives in full sun and can adapt to both dry and moist conditions, making it a versatile addition to various habitats. Known for its edible qualities, Quail Bush provides leaves, shoots, and seeds that can be consumed fresh or lightly cooked. The plant can grow up to 3 meters in height and prefers light (sandy) and medium soils with a pH range of 7 to 10, thriving in hardiness zones 7 to 10. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. While primarily used for its culinary benefits, Quail Bush's distinctive features include its adaptability and its ability to grow in a variety of soil types and moisture levels. It has been introduced to Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Hawaii, further expanding its geographical range.

Quick answers

What is Quail Bush?

Quail Bush (Atriplex lentiformis) is a subshrub to shrub native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico, including regions such as Arizona, California, Nevada, Texas, and Utah.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Quail Bush thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions. It grows well in light (sandy) and medium soils. The plant is hardy in zones 7-10 and can reach heights of 3 meters, making it a subshrub or shrub. For cultivation, use soil with a pH between 7 and 10. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. Harvest edible parts such as leaves, shoots, and seeds.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Subshrub, Shrub
Mature size
3.0 m tall
Soil pH
7–10
For first-time growers

How to grow Quail Bush for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple planting of Quail Bush to get familiar with its care.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the soil is warm but not hot.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 7 and 10. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors and transplant after danger of frost passes.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist until plants are established, then reduce watering.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun and minimal water once established. Prune lightly in spring to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to early spring to encourage new growth and maintain size.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: The quail bush can be eaten in various forms. Its leaves and shoots are often consumed fresh or lightly cooked. The seeds, while edible, may require more processing before consumption. Skip the detailed preparation methods as they were not provided.
Other uses:Soap
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

6 native · 3 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 6 native· 3 introduced
Americas1 region
introduced (1)United States
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)EritreaEthiopia
Broader regions
native:Arizona, California, Mexico Northwest, Nevada, Texas, Utah
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Atriplex lentiformis (Quail Bush) — botanical photograph
Quail Bush (Atriplex lentiformis)
XI

Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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