Simpson, Benny
Atriplex confertifolia (Torr. & Frém.) S. Wats.
Shadscale, Spiny saltbush, Shadscale saltbush, Hop sage
Chenopodiaceae (Goosefoot Family)
Shadscale or spiny saltbush is an erect, rigidly branched, spiny, rounded
shrub, 1-3 ft. high. Persistent, velvety-gray leaves are densely crowded on scurfy branches which may become shiny and leafless. Attractive, summer flowers are followed by masses of creamy-yellow seed clusters.
Image Gallery:
20 photo(s) available
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: Green
Bloom Time: Apr , May , Jun , Jul
Distribution
USA: AZ , CA , CO , ID , MT , NV , NM , ND , OR , TX , UT , WY
Native Distribution: W. ND to e. OR, s. to n. & w. TX & n. AZ
Native Habitat: Alkaline desert valleys; hillsides; bluffs
USDA Native Status: L48(N) Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium
Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Moisture: Dry
CaCO3 Tolerance: High
Cold Tolerant: yes
Soil Description: Dry, rocky or sandy, alkaline soils. Sandy, Sandy Loam, Medium Loam, Clay Loam, Clay, Limestone-based, Caliche type, Calcareous.
Conditions Comments: Very salt and alkaline tolerant. Thrives on adversity. Will tolerate, but not do well, in clay.
Last Update: 2008-10-31
