Salt Tree
Haloxylon persicum
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Pl. F8B3 — Haloxylon persicum
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IOverview
Overview
The Salt Tree (Haloxylon persicum) is a shrub or small tree native to arid regions of Central and Southwest Asia, including Afghanistan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Known for its ability to thrive in harsh conditions, this plant can be found growing in full sun with a preference for dry to moist soil types, ranging from light sandy to medium textures. Standing at 4.5 meters tall, the Salt Tree is notable not only for its resilience but also for its edible qualities, making it a valuable resource in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Salt Tree?
The Salt Tree (Haloxylon persicum) is a shrub or small tree native to arid regions of Central and Southwest Asia, including Afghanistan, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Salt Tree thrives in full sun and prefers dry to moist conditions with well-draining soils that are light or sandy. It is hardy in temperate regions but can adapt to various climates found in its native range. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains neither too wet nor too heavy; a medium texture works best. Regular pruning may be necessary to maintain shape and health. Given its natural habitat, it requires minimal water once established.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Mature size
4.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Salt Tree for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Salt Tree to gain experience in basic gardening.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Salt Tree sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant the Salt Tree during spring when temperatures are mild but not too hot.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use light, sandy soil in containers with good drainage holes. In gardens, prepare a well-draining site.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the sapling carefully to avoid damaging roots. Water thoroughly after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the first few weeks until the plant establishes itself.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Provide full sun exposure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues beginners face.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
14 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
14 native · 1 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 14 native· 1 introduced
Asia10 regions
native (10)AfghanistanChinaIranIraqKazakhstanPakistanPalestineSaudi ArabiaTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Africa2 regions
native (1)Egypt
introduced (1)Tunisia
Broader regions
native:Gulf States, Sinai, Tadzhikistan
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · f8b35ad0-6e8f-419b-ac4c-8953012aae12
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