SafePlants

*Atriplex glabriuscula* (Scotland Orache)

Atriplex glabriuscula, commonly known as Scotland Orache, is a forb/herb belonging to the Amaranth family (Amaranthaceae). It is also known as Babington's Orache, Smooth Orache, Glabrous Orache, and Northeastern Saltbush.

Considerations for Pets

• Red orache is sometimes used as a border plant in gardens.

Considerations for Children

• Red orache is sometimes used as a border plant in gardens.
• Red orache leaves can be a tasty addition to salads.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Atriplex glabriuscula Edmondston
• Family: Amaranthaceae (formerly Chenopodiaceae)
• Rank: Species
• Synonyms: Atriplex babingtonii, Atriplex argentea, silver orache, silver saltbush, silverscale, silvery saltbush

Distribution and Habitat

• Primarily found in the southwest of Scotland, especially on less-visited beaches.
• Also found in England and Wales.
• Grows in spreading clumps just above the high tide mark.

Morphological Characteristics

• An annual plant growing up to 0.3 meters (1 foot) in height.
• The Scotland orache assumes a yellowgreen coloring in the winter. These plants are not evergreens.

Ecological Role

• Associated with shingle species in the southwest of Scotland.

Life Cycle

• Flowers from June to July.
• Seeds ripen from August to September.
• Monoecious flowers (having both male and female parts).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The Trachea atriplicis or orache moth became extinct in 1905.

Quirky Facts

• Red orache, or mountain spinach, is an erect, colorful annual with purple leaves.