Four-Wing Saltbush

(Atriplex canescens)

Four-Wing Saltbush (Atriplex canescens)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Atriplex canescens, commonly known as Four-Wing Saltbush, is an evergreen shrub native to arid and semi-arid regions, including deserts and salt flats in the Western United States and Northern Mexico. It is highly adaptable and can also be found in disturbed areas, indicating its resilience. This plant exhibits a variable height ranging from 1 to 10 feet, with 2 to 4 feet being the most common stature. Four-Wing Saltbush has a distinctive appearance with its gray-green foliage and fruits that feature four papery wings, which are its most recognizable trait. These fruits are densely packed along long stems, adding to the plant’s visual interest. The blooming period extends from April to October, with inconspicuous yellowish flowers that are less noticeable than the winged fruits.

Four-Wing Saltbush is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, saline soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and habitat restoration projects. It is also used for erosion control and as a windbreak in suitable regions. Its ability to tolerate a range of soil drainage conditions, from fast to slow, and its preference for full sun make it a versatile plant in cultivation. While it is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, gardeners should be aware that it can self-seed and spread if not managed.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 2-10 feet
  • Width: 3-7 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Green, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to arid and semi-arid regions, deserts, salt flats, and disturbed areas in the Western United States and Northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Four Wing Saltbush , Shadscale , Chamere , Chamizo , Cenizo , Arroche Grisâtre , Chamiso , Chamiza , Four-Winged Saltbush

Scientific Names: Atriplex canescens , Atriplex canescens subsp. canescens , Atriplex canescens subsp. macropoda , Atriplex berlandieri , Atriplex tetraptera , Atriplex fruticosa , Atriplex macropoda , Obione tetraptera , Atriplex canescens subsp. typica , Atriplex canescens var. occidentalis

GBIF Accepted Name: Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt.