Tumbling Saltbush

(Atriplex rosea)

Tumbling Saltbush (Atriplex rosea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Atriplex rosea, commonly known as tumbling saltbush, red orach, redscale, and tumbling orach, is an annual herb that is native to Eurasia, particularly thriving in disturbed sites, coastal areas, and saline soils. It has a widespread distribution as an introduced species in many parts of the world. This plant can grow up to 4.5 feet tall with erect, hairless stems. The leaves of Atriplex rosea are notable for their color variation, ranging from green to red, and their shape, which can be oval, triangular, or lance-shaped with smooth to wavy edges, each leaf reaching up to 2.4 inches long.

Tumbling saltbush is valued for its ability to grow in poor, saline soils where other plants may struggle, making it useful for soil stabilization and as a pioneer species in disturbed areas. It is also used as an ornamental for its foliage color, particularly in xeriscaping. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It is drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. However, gardeners should be cautious as Atriplex rosea can be potentially invasive outside its native range, and it is advisable to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-3 feet
  • Width: 1-2 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Low Maintenance, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Native to disturbed sites, coastal areas, and saline soils in Eurasia

Other Names

Common Names: Red Orach, Tumbling Orach, Red Orache, Redscale, Redscale Saltbush, Redscale Saltweed, Tumbling Saltbush

Scientific Names: , Atriplex rosea, Atriplex alba, Atriplex albicans, Atriplex arenicola, Atriplex arenicola var. albescens, Atriplex argentea, Atriplex argentea, Atriplex axillaris, Atriplex besseriana

GBIF Accepted Name: