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(Atriplex confertifolia)
Shadscale (Atriplex confertifolia)
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Matt Lavin
CC BY-SA 2.0
Image By:
Matt Lavin
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Copyright:
CC BY-SA 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Matt Lavin | License Type: CC BY-SA 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: Matt Lavin | Publisher: Flickr |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Atriplex confertifolia, commonly known as shadscale or spiny saltbush, is an evergreen shrub native to the arid basins and saline flats of the Great Basin in the Western USA. It typically grows to a height of 1–3 ft (0.30–0.91 m) and is well-adapted to harsh desert environments. Shadscale is characterized by its scaly, gray-green foliage and its ability to thrive in sandy, well-drained soils. It has a rounded form with spiny branches that provide protection for the small, inconspicuous flowers which bloom from March to June. The fruits are small and may have two wings forming a "V" shape, distinguishing it from the related fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), which has four-winged fruits.
Shadscale is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to grow in saline conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and restoration projects in arid regions. It is also an important source of winter forage for wildlife and domestic livestock. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, thriving in full sun to part shade with very low water needs once established. While it is not typically grown for its ornamental qualities, it can serve as a hardy ground cover or windbreak in challenging environments. Gardeners should note that shadscale may spread readily in suitable conditions and should be monitored to prevent unwanted naturalization.CC BY-SA 4.0
Shadscale is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to grow in saline conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and restoration projects in arid regions. It is also an important source of winter forage for wildlife and domestic livestock. In cultivation, it requires minimal care, thriving in full sun to part shade with very low water needs once established. While it is not typically grown for its ornamental qualities, it can serve as a hardy ground cover or windbreak in challenging environments. Gardeners should note that shadscale may spread readily in suitable conditions and should be monitored to prevent unwanted naturalization.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub
- Height: 5-8 feet
- Width: 5-6 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
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, Low Maintenance, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
native to the arid basins and saline flats of the Great Basin in the Western USA
Other Names
Common Names: Shadscale Saltbush, Sheepfat, Spiny Saltbush
Scientific Names: , Atriplex confertifolia, Atriplex spinosa, Atriplex sabulosa, Atriplex subconferta, Atriplex collina, Obione confertifolia, Obione collina, Obione rigida, Obione spinosa
GBIF Accepted Name: Atriplex confertifolia (Torr. & Frém.) S.Watson