Cressa truxillensis, commonly known as spreading alkaliweed, is a perennial herb that is native to saline and alkaline environments, including coastal salt marshes, inland salt flats, and desert playas in the western United States and Mexico. It is well-adapted to extreme conditions found in these habitats, such as high salinity and aridity. The plant typically grows up to 10 inches tall with erect, branching stems that are densely covered with silky hairs. The small, hairy oval leaves are also adapted to conserve water. Spreading alkaliweed produces inconspicuous white flowers with five lobed corollas and hairy green sepals, which bloom in the axils of the uppermost leaves.

In cultivation, spreading alkaliweed is valued for its ability to thrive in harsh, saline environments, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and restoration projects in suitable climates. It requires minimal maintenance once established and can tolerate full sun and poor soil quality. It is often used to stabilize soils in areas affected by salinity. While not commonly found in ornamental gardens, it serves an important ecological role in its native habitat by providing ground cover that helps to reduce soil erosion. Gardeners interested in native plant landscaping or habitat restoration may find spreading alkaliweed a useful addition.CC BY-SA 4.0