Giant Saltbush
Atriplex nummularia
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Pl. 2A7C — Atriplex nummularia
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IOverview
Overview
Giant Saltbush (Atriplex nummularia) is a shrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. 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 textures with a pH range of 6 to 9. Known for its edible leaves and shoots, Giant Saltbush is valued not only for its ornamental qualities but also as a food source. One distinctive feature sets this plant apart: it can grow up to 3.5 meters in height, making it a notable presence in landscapes and gardens.
Quick answers
What is Giant Saltbush?
Giant Saltbush (Atriplex nummularia) is a shrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Giant Saltbush thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining to moderately moist soils with a pH between 6 and 9. It is adaptable to light (sandy) and medium soil types but requires dry to moist conditions. This shrub can grow up to 3.5 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 7-10. For propagation, gardeners can use seeds or cuttings. Harvest the edible leaves and shoots for culinary uses.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
3.5 m tall
Soil pH
6–9
For first-time growers
How to grow Giant Saltbush for the first time
8steps
Start with Giant Saltbush as a simple, low-maintenance shrub for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Giant Saltbush plant or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or autumn when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining spot with light to medium soil. Ensure the pH is between 6 and 9.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly in the ground, spacing them about 1 meter apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to help establish the plant. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly once established. Prune lightly in spring to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead branches and promote healthy growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesShoots
Edible uses: The Giant Saltbush's leaves and shoots are edible. They can be eaten raw or cooked. The plant thrives in various conditions but is commonly enjoyed for its tender young growth, often used in salads or as a tasty addition to stews and soups.
Other uses:Fire retardantAnimal feedHedgerowErosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 20 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 20 introducedDistribution across5 continents· 6 native· 20 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Spain
Asia3 regions
introduced (3)IraqPalestineTaiwan
Americas1 region
introduced (1)Bolivia
Africa6 regions
introduced (6)AlgeriaDjiboutiEgyptMoroccoNamibiaTunisia
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)Nauru
Broader regions
native:New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia
introduced:Free State, Northern Provinces, St.Helena, Arizona, California, Cape Provinces, Chile Central, Chile North
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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