Powell's Saltweed

Atriplex powellii

Physical Characteristics

Atriplex powellii is a ANNUAL growing to 0.7 m (2ft 4in) by 0.7 m (2ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Central and western N. America.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Leaves boiled and eaten as greens by several Native American groups; Zuni ground the seeds with corn, formed patties, and steamed them. As with other Atriplex, expect salinity/oxalates; cook and eat in moderation [2-3]. Edibility rating: 3/5 (decent when well prepared, but not gourmet). Parts used & preparation: Leaves: Boil (often in one or more changes of water) to temper saltiness/irritants; use as a side green. Seeds (utricles): Dry heads, thresh; winnow; grind with corn or on their own; steam into cakes or simmer as mush. Expect a grain-like, slightly alkaline character; change water if harsh [2-3]. Leaves and young plants - cooked[161, 177] and used as greens[216, 257]. A salty flavour, they are often used as a flavouring for other foods[257]. Seed - cooked[161, 177]. Used in piñole or ground into a meal and used as a thickener in making bread or mixed with flour in making bread[257]. Atriplex species often accumulate oxalates, nitrates, selenium, and salts. Favor young leaves, boil and discard cooking water if harsh, and keep portions moderate—especially for people with kidney issues or on low-oxalate/low-sodium diets. Seeds are generally safer than leaves, but the bractlets/utricles range from papery to very tough; plan on threshing, winnowing, grinding, and sometimes pre-boiling to get a pleasant result. Lookalikes & cautions. Other desert oraches; same oxalate/nitrate precautions—boil and moderate use. Traditional uses: Pima potherb (“salt greens”). Harvest tips: Take only young, tender shoots; if very briny/irritating, blanch, refresh, then finish cooking.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

No member of this genus contains any toxins, all have more or less edible leaves. However, if grown with artificial fertilizers, they may concentrate harmful amounts of nitrates in their leaves.