Maximowicz's saltbush
Atriplex maximowiczianafam. Chenopodiaceae
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Pl. 2099 — Atriplex maximowicziana
Atriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowiczianaAtriplex maximowicziana
IOverview
Overview
Maximowicz's saltbush (Atriplex maximowicziana) is a perennial subshrub or herb that grows up to 0.8 meters in height and thrives in full sun with light to medium soil, including sandy conditions. Native to China Southeast, Japan, and the Nansei-shoto islands, this plant is known for its edible leaves and seeds. It can tolerate both dry and moist environments, making it adaptable to various habitats within its native range. This saltbush is notable for its ornamental value as well, adding a touch of greenery to landscapes in regions where it grows naturally or has been cultivated.
Quick answers
What is Maximowicz's saltbush?
Maximowicz's saltbush (Atriplex maximowicziana) is a perennial subshrub or herb that grows up to 0.8 meters in height and thrives in full sun with light to medium soil, including sandy conditions. Native to China Southeast, Japan, and the Nansei-shoto islands, this plant is known for its edible leaves and seeds.
Compare with:Atriplex dimorphostegia→Atriplex subcordata→Australian Saltbush Australian saltbush→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Maximowicz'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 benefits from moist soil. This subshrub or herb grows to a height of 0.8 meters and is perennial, making it a reliable addition to the garden. Propagation can be achieved through seeds. Hardy in temperate regions, this plant is native to China Southeast, Japan, and Nansei-shoto. Harvest its edible leaves and seeds for use in culinary applications.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Subshrub, Forb/herb
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Maximowicz's saltbush for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Maximowicz's saltbush to experience growing a hardy, low-maintenance plant.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a garden trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0, suitable for light (sandy) to medium soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden after danger of frost is past, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly until plants are established. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and minimal watering once established. Prune to maintain shape if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain size.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Maximowicz's saltbush are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are typically dried before consumption. Both parts add a unique flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 1 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 3 native· 1 introduced
Asia2 regions
native (2)ChinaJapan
Americas1 region
introduced (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Nansei-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Chenopodiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Chenopodiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
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