Atriplex argentea, commonly known as Silverscale Saltbush or Silver Orache, is an annual herb native to the arid and semi-arid regions of western North America, from southern Canada through the United States to northern Mexico. It is particularly adapted to saline and alkaline soils found in areas such as playas, desert shrublands, and disturbed sites. This plant typically grows in a sprawling fashion, with branching stems that can either spread low to the ground or reach up to 31 inches tall. The leaves are triangular to oval, measuring 0 to 2 inches in length, and are distinctive for their coating of gray scales, which gives the plant a silvery appearance.

Silverscale Saltbush is valued for its ability to thrive in challenging soil conditions and is often used in restoration projects to stabilize soils and as a pioneer species in saline environments. It is also appreciated for its drought tolerance and can be used in xeriscaping. The plant’s inconspicuous flowers, which bloom from June to October, are not particularly showy, but they do provide a subtle texture to the landscape. Male and female flowers are found in separate clusters on the same plant. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, preferring full sun and well-drained soils. While it has traditional medicinal uses among the Zuni people, it is not commonly used for culinary purposes.CC BY-SA 4.0