Oldman Saltbush

(Atriplex nummularia)

Oldman Saltbush (Atriplex nummularia)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Atriplex nummularia, commonly known as Oldman Saltbush, is a perennial shrub native to the arid and semi-arid inland regions of Australia, particularly found in saline flats, clay pans, and arid shrublands. It is well-adapted to harsh environments with its silvery-grey foliage, which reflects sunlight and conserves water. Oldman Saltbush typically grows to a height of up to 10 feet (3 meters) and spreads 7-13 feet (2-4 meters) wide. The plant exhibits a rounded form with dense, simple, alternate leaves that have a distinctive silvery-grey coating due to the presence of salt-excreting bladders. It is dioecious, with separate male and female plants, and produces inconspicuous flowers.

Oldman Saltbush is valued for its exceptional drought and salt tolerance, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and rehabilitation of degraded lands. Its dense growth habit and ability to thrive in poor soils with minimal water make it a low-maintenance option for gardeners in arid regions. It is also used for livestock fodder due to its high salt and mineral content. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and well-drained soils, preferably on the sandy or loamy side. While it is not known for aggressive roots, it can become potentially invasive outside its native range, so caution is advised when planting in non-native areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 3-10 feet
  • Width: 6-12 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Groundcover, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to saline flats, clay pans, and arid shrublands of Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Old Man Saltbush, Giant Saltbush, Da Yang Zhou Bin Li

Scientific Names: , Atriplex nummularia, Atriplex halimioides var. monumentalis, Atriplex johnsonii, Atriplex nummularia subsp. eunummularia,

GBIF Accepted Name: