Extriplex californica, commonly known as California saltbush or California orache, is a perennial herb native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral of California and Baja California, often found in saline soils including coastal strands, beaches, and salt marshes. It typically grows to about 12 inches (30 cm) in height and spreads to approximately 31 inches (79 cm) wide. The plant has a fleshy caudex and taproot, with stems that are often sprawling. Its scaly gray-green leaves are lance-shaped to oval, and it can be either monoecious or dioecious. The inflorescences are rough clusters of tiny, inconspicuous flowers.

California saltbush is valued for its ability to thrive in saline and drought-prone conditions, making it an excellent choice for coastal and desert gardens. It is used for habitat restoration, erosion control, and as a pioneer species in disturbed areas. It is also planted in xeriscapes and as a ground cover in areas with poor soil. This plant prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It is highly drought-tolerant once established and requires minimal maintenance. While generally disease-free, it can occasionally suffer from rust or fungal leaf spots in more humid climates.CC BY-SA 4.0