SafePlants

No images found for this plant ID: 1522.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "1522" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Dogs?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Cats?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

Safe for Reptiles?

✅ Safe: 0
❓ Neutral: 0
❌ Unsafe: 0

iodinebush

Scientific Name: Allenrolfea occidentalis

Family: Chenopodiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Iodine Bush (Allenrolfea occidentalis)

The Iodine Bush, scientifically known as Allenrolfea occidentalis, is a fascinating plant adapted to harsh, salty environments. It's also sometimes referred to as pickleweed, although that name can apply to other species as well.

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant has fleshy stems.
  • It grows as a low-lying shrub.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant has fleshy stems.
  • It grows as a low-lying shrub.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Allenrolfea occidentalis (S. Watson) Kuntze
  • Common Names: Iodine bush, iodinebush, pickleweed
  • Family: Chenopodiaceae (Goosefoot Family)
  • Genus: Allenrolfea (monotypic, meaning it contains only one species)
  • Synonym: Halostachys occidentalis (S. Wats.)

Distribution and Habitat

  • The Iodine Bush is native to the Southwestern US.
  • It thrives in sandy, alkaline soils, coastal salt flats, and alkali inland habitats.
  • It's often found in damp areas with salty soils, such as flood basins near rivers and poorly drained low spots.
  • Specific locations mentioned include areas south of Salt Lake City, Utah and the Panamint Valley in Death Valley National Park, California.

Morphological Characteristics

  • It is a low-growing subshrub, often described as dark-colored from a distance.
  • The Iodine Bush has fleshy, jointed stems.
  • Its leaves are described as resembling scales, making it appear nearly leafless.
  • Flowers grow in crowded spikes.
  • It typically reaches a height of less than 2 meters.

Ecological Role

  • The Iodine Bush is a halophyte, meaning it's adapted to grow in high-salinity conditions.
  • It tolerates salt by storing it in spaces within its cells.
  • It's often the dominant shrub in salt playas and mudflats.

Allergen Information

  • Pollen from the Iodine Bush can be a seasonal allergen.

Quirky Facts

  • From a distance, stands of Iodine Bush appear dark in color due to the plant's stem coloration.