Australian Saltbush

(Atriplex semibaccata)

Australian Saltbush (Atriplex semibaccata)

Forest and Kim Starr

CC BY 2.0

Image By: Forest and Kim Starr

Recorded By:

Copyright Notice: Photo by: Forest and Kim Starr | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: Starr Environmental | Publisher: Flickr

Estimated Native Range

Summary

Atriplex semibaccata, commonly known as Australian Saltbush, is an evergreen perennial that can function as a subshrub, shrub, or herb. It is native to arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, including plains and scrublands. This plant typically grows 40–80 cm tall and can spread 1.5-2m in diameter, with slender branches emerging from a woody taproot. Its growth habit is often mat-forming or semi-erect, with prostrate and decumbent characteristics, making it well-suited for ground cover. Australian Saltbush produces inconspicuous yellow flowers and fruits in spring, which propagate from seed when the fruit splits open.

Australian Saltbush is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and erosion control. In cultivation, it requires full sun, minimal water, and well-drained soils. It is also used in landscaping for its foliage and as a ground cover. However, gardeners should be aware of its potential invasiveness outside its native range, as it can spread aggressively in regions like California, South America, South Africa, and the Mediterranean. It is recommended to consult local regulations before planting Atriplex semibaccata to ensure it is not considered invasive in the area.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

Plant Type: Subshrub, Shrub, Herb
Height: 1.5-2.5 feet
Width: 1.5-2 feet
Growth Rate: Slow
Flower Color: N/A
Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, 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., Fire Resistant, Low Maintenance, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Arid and semi-arid regions including plains and scrublands

Other Names

Common Names: Berry Saltbush, Creeping Saltbush, Diamond Saltbush, Half-Berry Saltbush, Pasto Salado, Alfalfa-Arbórea

Scientific Names: , Atriplex semibaccata, Atriplex semibaccata var. appendiculata, Atriplex stuckertii, Atriplex denticulata, Atriplex semibaccata var. typica, Atriplex flagellaris, Atriplex neurivalvis, Atriplex semibaccata var. biformis, Atriplex semibaccata var. gracilis

GBIF Accepted Name: Atriplex semibaccata R.Br.