Powell's Saltweed
Atriplex powellii
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. 13E4 — Atriplex powellii
Atriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powelliiAtriplex powellii
IOverview
Overview
Powell's Saltweed (Atriplex powellii) is an annual forb or herb native to the western and central United States and Canada, including regions such as Alberta, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, thriving in light (sandy) to medium soil types. Standing up to 1.5 meters tall, Powell's Saltweed is known for its edible leaves and seeds, making it a valuable resource for those interested in foraging. Its adaptability to various habitats and its utility as an edible plant make it noteworthy among native flora.
Quick answers
What is Powell's Saltweed?
Powell's Saltweed (Atriplex powellii) is an annual forb or herb native to the western and central United States and Canada, including regions such as Alberta, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Powell's Saltweed thrives in full sun and prefers light to medium soil that is either dry or moist. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and is an annual forb/herb. This plant is native to regions including Alberta, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly in the garden or started indoors. Given its wide distribution across temperate regions, it should adapt well to various climates within its native range.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Powell's Saltweed for the first time
8steps
Start with Powell's Saltweed as an easy-to-grow annual for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a small trowel or scoop, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is warm.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun. Prepare loose, well-draining soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in rows 30-45 cm apart. Thin seedlings to 30 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water gently but regularly, keeping soil moist until plants are established.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and minimal water once established. Prune lightly if needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to thin seedlings.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Powell's Saltweed are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are often dried before consumption. This plant thrives in various conditions across its native range, providing a versatile ingredient for culinary use.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
13 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
13 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 13 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 13e4a07a-ba5d-4953-ad4c-caec6f362292
Decision aid
Choosing between Powell's Saltweed and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.