Sarcobatus vermiculatus
Sarcobatus vermiculatus
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Pl. D4D5 — Sarcobatus vermiculatus
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IOverview
Overview
Sarcobatus vermiculatus, commonly known as greasewood, is a shrub native to the western United States and parts of Canada, including Alberta, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, and Washington. This plant thrives in full sun and a variety of soil types, from light sandy to heavy clay, with an optimal pH range of 7.5–8.5. Known for its edible parts—leaves, seeds, and shoots—greasewood is also valued for its ornamental qualities. Its distinctive feature includes the presence of small, worm-like structures (vermiculatus) on its stems, which gives it a unique appearance in the landscape.
Quick answers
What is Sarcobatus vermiculatus?
Sarcobatus vermiculatus, commonly known as greasewood, is a shrub native to the western United States and parts of Canada, including Alberta, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, and Washington.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Sarcobatus vermiculatus thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 7.5 and 8.5. It can grow in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types but requires dry to moist conditions. Hardy from zones 4-8, this shrub is native to regions including Alberta, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, and parts of Mexico. For propagation, use leaves, seeds, or shoots. Regular pruning may be necessary to maintain shape.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Habit
Shrub
Mature size
2.7 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Sarcobatus vermiculatus for the first time
8steps
Start with Sarcobatus vermiculatus by planting it in a sunny spot and providing minimal care.
- 1
What you'll need
A small Sarcobatus vermiculatus plant or seeds, a trowel, and mulch.
- 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 7.5-8.5, and prepare by mixing in compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep or transplant young plants, spacing them about 2 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and minimal water once established. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to encourage new growth and remove any dead branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, and not providing enough sunlight are common issues.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: The leaves, seeds, and shoots of Sarcobatus vermiculatus are edible. Typically, the young shoots are harvested and eaten raw or cooked. Seeds can be collected and prepared in various ways, though specific methods are not detailed here. Leaves may also be used fresh or dried for culinary purposes.
Other uses:Fire starterLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
17 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
17 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 17 native
Broader regions
native:Alberta, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Mexico Northwest, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, New Mexico
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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