SafePlants

Valley Saltbush (Atriplex cuneata)

Valley Saltbush, scientifically known as Atriplex cuneata, is a fascinating plant with a notable presence in specific regions of the United States and beyond. This page delves into its taxonomy, distribution, ecological role, and other interesting facts.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Valley Saltbush grows as a subshrub or shrub. While not explicitly stated, woody plants could pose a chewing hazard to some pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Atriplex cuneata
• Common Name: Valley Saltbush
• Family: Chenopodiaceae (implied by mentioning chenopod scrubs)
• Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies (mentioned explicitly)
• Synonyms: Atriplex acanthocarpa (Torr.)
• Other varieties include:
  • A. g. var. aptera - Nelson's saltbush
  • A. g. var. cuneata - Castle Valley saltbush

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Great Plains (A. g. var. aptera)
• Occurs in Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico (A. g. var. cuneata)
• Found in Valley Sink Scrub and Valley Saltbush Scrub habitats
• Commonly found on valley floors and terraces, particularly in salty areas
• Observed in the San Joaquin Valley and Death Valley, California

Ecological Role

• Dominates valley saltbush scrub communities.
• Provides habitat for the valley elderberry longhorn beetle.
• Indicates the presence of alkali desert environments.
• Can be used as fodder for sheep.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Described as a subshrub or shrub.
• Perennial, meaning it grows year after year.
• Forms open, gray or blue-green chenopod scrubs (10-40% cover).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Susceptible to False Chinch Bugs in the San Joaquin Valley, California.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Atriplex cuneata.
• The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (1997) provides information on species of the San Joaquin Valley.