SafePlants

Atriplex elegans: Wheelscale Saltbush

Atriplex elegans, commonly known as wheelscale saltbush, Mecca orach, or simply wheelscale, is a fascinating member of the plant kingdom. This page provides information about its taxonomy, distribution, and other interesting characteristics.

Considerations for Pets and Children

• This plant has small parts, which may present a choking hazard, especially for small children and pets.
• The text mentions the presence of sap in similar plants (saltbush), so it is best to prevent ingestion.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Atriplex elegans (Moq.) D. Dietr.
• Common Names: Wheelscale saltbush, Mecca orach, wheelscale
• Family: Chenopodiaceae
• Genus: Atriplex
• Synonyms/Related Taxa:
  • Atriplex elegans var. fasciculata (S. Watson) M.E. Jones
  • Atriplex elegans var. thornberi M.E. Jones
  • Atriplex elegans subsp. fasciculata (S. Watson) H.M. Hall & Clem.

Distribution and Habitat

Atriplex elegans is native to the Southwestern United States and Texas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Atriplex elegans is an annual plant, sometimes perennial.
• It typically grows to a height of 0.2 meters (8 inches).
• Stems are ascending or procumbent to erect, stramineous or whitish, simple or much branched at the base.
• It is classified as a forb/herb, a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
• It flowers from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October.

Ecological Role

It is sometimes considered a weed.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Beetles have been observed feeding on the foliage of wheelscale saltbush.

Traditional Uses

• The Pima Native Americans used Wheelscale Saltbush as a cooking agent.

Quirky Facts

• Lucretia Breazeale Hamilton illustrated this plant for "An Illustrated Guide to Arizona Weeds."

Further Resources

• An Illustrated Guide to Arizona Weeds (online edition)
• Discover Life database