Wedgescale Saltbush

Atriplex truncata

Physical Characteristics

Atriplex truncata is a ANNUAL growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). 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 monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) 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: mildly acid, 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

Western N. America - southern British Columbia to California.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Seed Edible Uses: Edibility (summary & rating). Seeds gathered and eaten by the Goshiute. Leaves not highlighted here; if used, boil. Edibility rating: 3/5 (seed resource; modest flavor). Parts used & preparation. Seeds (utricles): Collect dry heads; thresh/winnow; grind; cook as mush or add to breads. Leaves: If tried, use as small boiled greens [2-3]. Leaves and young plants - cooked. A salty flavour. Seed - cooked[161, 177, 257]. Used in piñole or ground into a meal and used as a thickener in making bread or mixed with flour in making bread.

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.