Tamarisk
Tamarix ramosissima
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Pl. 8546 — Tamarix ramosissima
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IOverview
Overview
Tamarisk, scientifically known as Tamarix ramosissima, is a shrub or small tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Bulgaria, China North-Central, East Aegean Islands, and parts of Europe and Central Asia. This plant is valued for its edible qualities, with fruits that are suitable for human consumption. It thrives in various soil types, from light (sandy) to heavy (clay), and prefers a pH range of 7–7.5. Tamarisk can grow up to 4.5 meters tall and is known for its distinctive ability to tolerate dry and moist conditions, making it a resilient choice for gardens or landscapes where water management is crucial.
Quick answers
What is Tamarisk?
Tamarisk, scientifically known as Tamarix ramosissima, is a shrub or small tree native to regions including Afghanistan, Bulgaria, China North-Central, East Aegean Islands, and parts of Europe and Central Asia. This plant is valued for its edible qualities, with fruits that are suitable for human consumption.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tamarisk thrives in well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) with a pH between 7 and 7.5. It prefers dry to moist conditions and can tolerate various light levels, though it does best in full sun. Hardy from zones 2-9, this plant is suitable for temperate regions. Propagate through cuttings or seeds. With a height of up to 4.5 meters, Tamarisk makes an excellent tree or shrub for gardens in its hardiness range.
Light
9/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
2-9
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
4.5 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Tamarisk for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple planting of Tamarisk to get familiar with its care.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Tamarisk plant, well-draining soil, and a container or garden spot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 7-7.5, and prepare a container or garden bed accordingly.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young Tamarisk plants directly into the prepared soil, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their pot.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to help establish roots. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water sparingly once established, especially in dry conditions. Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Tamarisk regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent it from becoming too tall. Remove any dead or damaged branches.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Manna
Other uses:HedgerowErosion control
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
26 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
26 native · 4 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 26 native· 4 introduced
Europe6 regions
native (4)BulgariaGreeceRussiaUkraine
introduced (2)HungarySpain
Asia9 regions
native (9)AfghanistanChinaIranIraqKazakhstanMongoliaPakistanTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Kirgizstan, Lebanon-Syria, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, West Himalaya
introduced:Washington, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 8546952e-a46f-4c0f-b5d3-1a0f6dde156a
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