Nuttall's Saltbush
Atriplex nuttallii
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Pl. 5DF1 — Atriplex nuttallii
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IOverview
Overview
Nuttall's Saltbush (Atriplex nuttallii) is a shrub native to the western and central United States as well as parts of Mexico. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various habitats within its range. This plant grows up to 0.9 meters tall and prefers light (sandy) or medium soil types. Known for its edible leaves and seeds, Nuttall's Saltbush is a valuable resource in areas where other plants may struggle to grow. Its distinctive feature lies in its ability to flourish in diverse environments, contributing to the local flora of regions from Alberta and Arizona to Mexico Central and beyond.
Quick answers
What is Nuttall's Saltbush?
Nuttall's Saltbush (Atriplex nuttallii) is a shrub native to the western and central United States as well as parts of Mexico. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various habitats within its range.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Nuttall's Saltbush thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy) or medium. It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This plant is hardy in zones 5-9 and can reach a height of about 0.9 meters. To propagate, use seeds directly sown in the garden after danger of frost has passed. Skip any specific soil amendments not mentioned here; Nuttall's Saltbush adapts well to various conditions found in its native range.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
5-9
Mature size
0.9 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Nuttall's Saltbush for the first time
7steps
Start with Nuttall's Saltbush as a low-maintenance addition to your garden, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.5, ensuring it's light (sandy) to medium.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants after danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and minimal watering once established. Prune lightly to maintain shape if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain size.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: Nuttall's Saltbush leaves and seeds are edible. The leaves can be eaten fresh or dried, while the seeds are often roasted before consumption. Both parts are commonly used in various culinary applications, adding a unique flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
23 native · 7 introduced
Distribution
23 native · 7 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 23 native· 7 introduced
Asia3 regions
introduced (3)IranPakistanPalestine
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)EgyptMorocco
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southeast, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
introduced:Gulf States, New South Wales
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 5df16def-e69a-478e-bfdc-001e9b13c9a0
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